Picture by Bibhash Lodh/BS News Agency.
Sanchita Chatterjee, BS News Agency, Kolkata: In a decisive move towards sustainability, West Bengal is committed to meeting 20% of its energy needs through renewables by 2030, confirmed by Janab Md. Ghulam Rabbani, Hon’ble Minister-in-charge, Department of Non-Conventional and Renewable Energy Sources, Government of West Bengal in the 15th edition of Energy Conclave 2025 organised by CII Eastern Region in Kolkata, today. Speaking at the conclave, the Hon’ble Minister emphasized that the government is actively exploring integrated models that combine solar with other renewable resources such as biomass and hybrid systems. With renewables already accounting for 25.12 per cent of the state’s total energy potential, he noted that the focus is on making clean energy solutions more accessible and affordable for agricultural, residential, and commercial consumers, thereby accelerating West Bengal’s transition towards a sustainable energy future. Shri Barun Kumar Ray, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Non-Conventional and Renewable Energy Sources, Government of West Bengal highlighted that electricity demand in West Bengal is projected to grow steadily, by 5% annually in the utility sector and 19% in the captive segment over the next two to three decades. Under the Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) trajectory set by the Central Power Ministry, renewable procurement is mandated to rise from 30% currently to 50% by 2030. For West Bengal, this translates into ambitious targets of 15 GW by 2026 and 25 GW by 2032, creating significant opportunities for investors. Mr Ray invited chambers of commerce and renewable energy companies to share their experiences, identify constraints, and explore emerging opportunities to create a conducive business environment. He underlined that an investment of ₹65,000–70,000 crore will be required for West Bengal’s transition to renewable energy. On waste-to-energy, he noted that the state is actively considering the establishment of 8 to 12 new plants by 2026, ensuring complete waste processing coverage and contributing to circular economy goals.
Importantly, he emphasized that competition in the power sector, rather than monopoly, will be critical to reducing costs, improving efficiency, and ensuring a complete transition from traditional to newer sources of energy. He concluded by noting that while incremental progress has been significant, transformative change is essential to boost renewable capacity and prepare the state for future energy shocks. Dr Andrew Fleming, British Deputy High Commissioner to Kolkata, highlighted the UK–India partnership in advancing renewable energy. He emphasized close collaboration to drive an equitable transition, strengthen energy security, expand access, and foster inclusive development, noting UK support for national and state reforms enhancing storage, flexibility, and renewable scaling. Mr Gyanesh Chaudhary, Chairman – CII ESG Subcommittee (ER) and Chairman & Managing Director, Vikram Solar Limited, highlighted the region’s untapped potential and the need to shift from coal to sustainable solutions like green hydrogen. Mr Raghav Kanoria, Co-Chairman – CII Energy Subcommittee (ER) and Managing Director, India Power Corporation Limited, stressed on accelerated renewable adoption to unlock growth and strengthen energy security. Mr Vineet Sikka, Chairman – CII Energy Subcommittee (ER) and Managing Director (Distribution), CESC Limited, underscored the Conclave as a platform to shape the region’s energy vision. Mr Shibashis Khan, Member – CII Energy Subcommittee (ER) and Sr Director - Digital Industries (Metals, Mining & Cement), Siemens Limited noted that balanced transition, innovation, and efficiency are key to sustainability, energy security, and economic growth, achievable through stakeholder collaboration. The Conclave also released the CII–Consultivo ENCON Compendium 2025, showcasing 20 outstanding energy-efficiency practices, and presented the CII ENCON Awards, recognizing excellence in energy efficiency and conservation across manufacturing and services sectors.