Odisha’s clean energy ambitions reached a new milestone at the Odisha Solar Investor Conclave, jointly organized by GRIDCO Limited and iFOREST (International Forum for Environment, Sustainability, and Technology). The event marked a significant step forward in the state’s mission to achieve 7.5 GW of solar capacity by 2030, contributing to its overarching goal of adding 10.95 GW of renewable energy capacity within the same timeline.

The conclave brought together over 150 commercial and industrial consumers, 100 solar developers, and over 400 participants, fostering a collaborative environment for exploring investment opportunities, forging partnerships, and discussing the enabling policy frameworks essential for Odisha’s transformation into a solar energy hub.

Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha and Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment and Energy, Shri Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, in his keynote address, highlighted the state’s resolute commitment to renewable energy. He stated, “The Government 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 conducive, we have a robust system in place, and we have the willpower to harness it.”

Delivering the inaugural address, Shri Vishal Kumar Dev, Principal Secretary, Energy Department, Government of Odisha, 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.”

Solar energy currently constitutes 21% of Odisha’s total renewable energy capacity of 2,938 MW, including hydro, with 508 MW of ground-mounted solar, 58 MW of rooftop solar, and 42 MW of off-grid solar already operational. Sundargarh, Angul, Balangir, Jharsuguda, and Dhenkanal districts, key industrial hubs, were identified as hotspots for solar potential, with a combined capacity exceeding 62 GW.

Speaking at the conclave, Shri Trilochan Panda, Managing Director of GRIDCO Ltd, noted, “A modest potential of 200 GW is available in the state currently. A large chunk will come from floating solar, rooftop solar, and PM Kusum initiatives. The state has provided significant incentives to promote renewable energy, making the ecosystem highly encouraging.”

Dr. Chandra Bhushan, President and CEO of iFOREST, emphasized the critical role of clean energy in building a green economy, stating, “A green environment is only possible if we build a green economy. 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 renewable energy potential will expand even further.”

The conclave showcased a massive market for solar energy within Odisha and saw vibrant participation from solar developers, consumers, investors, government representatives, and civil society. Discussions focused on pathways for scaling up solar energy, integrating solar into the energy mix, and building a policy ecosystem that prioritizes ease of investment.

As a precursor to the Make in Odisha Conclave 2025, the Odisha Solar Investor Conclave has set the stage for driving renewable energy growth, reinforcing Odisha’s leadership in India’s clean energy transition.