Odisha Solar Investor Conclave: Govt. targets 7.5 GW of solar energy by 2030

Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s renewable energy ambitions took center stage at the Odisha Solar Investor Conclave organised by GRIDCO Limited and iFOREST (International Forum for Environment Sustainability and Technology) here on Monday.

Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Energy Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, said, “The Govt. of Odisha is committed to renewable energy. Our Prime Minister has shown the way forward for 2070. Solar is a key driver for the State’s growth and Odisha has everything possible going for it. Our investment climate is condusive, we have a robust system in place and we have the will power to harness it”.

 In his inaugural address, Principal Secretary of Energy Vishal Kumar Dev said, “Odisha is on the cusp of a transformative energy transition. The demand for clean and affordable energy has never been more important to address the global challenge of climate change. This conclave is a testament to our commitment to clean energy.”

The event underscored the State’s commitment to achieving 7.5 GW of solar capacity by 2030 as part of the State’s larger vision to add 10.95 GW of renewable energy capacity by the same year. The conclave, brought together 150+ commercial and industrial consumers, 100+ solar developers and 400+ participants to explore investment opportunities, foster partnerships, and discuss the enabling policy framework designed to transform Odisha into a solar energy hub.

Solar power currently accounts for 21% of Odisha’s total 2,938 MW renewable energy capacity, including hydro. This includes 508 MW of ground-mounted, 58 MW of rooftop, and 42 MW of off-grid solar capacity. And 28% of the 1,343 MW of renewable energy in the development pipeline. Top districts for solar potential include Sundargarh (15.23 GW), Angul (14.06 GW), Balangir (11.62 GW), Jharsuguda (11.45 GW), and Dhenkanal (9.70 GW). These are also Odisha’s key industrial hubs.  

Managing Director of GRIDCO Trilochan Panda said, “We have found that a modest potential of 200GW is available in the state currently. A large chunk will come from floating solar, rooftop solar and PM Kusum. A lot of incentives have been given by the state to promote renewable energy. The ecosystem is very encouraging.”

President and CEO of iFOREST, Dr. Chandra Bhushan said, “A green environment is only possible if we build a green economy. And clean energy is its biggest driver. There is demand, potential to supply and favourable conditions for the sector to grow. Five years from now, the potential of renewable energy will expand”.