Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi on Tuesday said the International Solar Alliance (ISA) is transitioning “from ambition to action,” strengthening global cooperation through affordable access and community empowerment.
Speaking at the 8th session of the ISA Assembly at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, Joshi emphasized that the organization is increasingly focused on implementation and measurable outcomes in the renewable energy sector.
He highlighted that the solar facility managed by Africa50 is mobilizing funds for distributed solar projects, bringing transformative change to ISA member countries. Joshi also pointed to initiatives such as the STAR-C Network, which are promoting digitization and artificial intelligence in solar development—creating what he called the “Silicon Valley of solar” for the Global South. “This ensures that the energy future is green, smart, and inclusive,” he added.
The minister noted that this year’s Assembly has been redesigned to be “more accelerated and implementation-focused.” He said the ISA has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with six organizations, which will be presented before the Assembly for ratification as recommended by the Standing Committee in its 13th meeting. “ISA is becoming robust, streamlined, analytical, and focused on execution,” Joshi remarked, adding that ministers representing the ISA Assembly’s Regional Vice Presidents will present country statements during the session.
ISA Director General Ashish Khanna, also addressing the session, announced that the Africa Solar Facility will be launched next year alongside the India AI Impact Summit. He also revealed plans for a new regional interconnection programme aimed at reducing reliance on battery storage.
During the plenary session, France pledged a financial contribution of 150,000 euros to support Africa’s solar facility in 2025.
The four-day ISA Assembly, attended by representatives from 124 countries and over 40 ministers, seeks to strengthen global collaboration and accelerate the global shift toward sustainable solar energy.
