Bhubaneswar: The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) today inaugurated the Eastern India Clean Energy Summit in Bhubaneswar, focusing on the theme “Powering Eastern India’s Net-Zero Transformation.” The event saw strong commitments from the Government of Odisha as senior leaders outlined a clear roadmap for the state’s clean energy transition, reports Odishabarta.com.
Speaking as Chief Guest, Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo said the state is at a turning point in its development. He noted the government’s targets, stating that Odisha aims for 11 GW of green energy capacity by 2030. “To help industries shift to clean energy, we are adding large capacities of green hydrogen and green ammonia,” he said.
He also announced that the state recently approved 53 green energy projects of around 2,000 MW worth ₹13,422 crore. On the PM Surya Ghar Mukt Bijli Yojana, he said Odisha is offering up to ₹60,000 additional financial assistance per household, apart from the Centre’s support of up to ₹76,000, with plans to cover three lakh households. Addressing land constraints, he noted that the state is exploring options such as rail-top and canal-top solar projects.
Industry Minister Sampad Chandra Swain said Odisha is entering a new phase of growth shaped by clean energy, modern manufacturing, and responsible industries. He highlighted the benefits of the Odisha Renewable Energy Policy 2022, which includes long-term waivers on electricity duty, wheeling charges, cross-subsidy surcharge, and land fees for green hydrogen and ammonia projects. He said 16 major projects worth over ₹2 lakh crore have already been approved, with more in the pipeline, involving companies such as JSW, ReNew, Avaada, Waaree, ACME, Sembcorp, L&T Energy Greentech, INOX Wind, and others. He added that Odisha is ready to collaborate with industry, investors, and academia to build a greener future.
Guest of Honour Vishal Kumar Dev, Principal Secretary, Department of Energy, said Odisha will require ₹30,000 crore in transmission investments by 2035, with ₹25,000 crore needed in the next five years alone.
Additional Chief Secretary Hemant Sharma said Odisha contributes roughly 3% to India’s GSDP but accounts for about 6% of the national carbon footprint. He stressed that the state recognises the value of green energy and invited stakeholders to join in making Odisha a national leader in clean energy.
The summit opened with a welcome address by Pankaj Lochan Mohanty, Chairman of ASSOCHAM’s Odisha State Development Council, followed by an address from Ashesh Padhy, Chairman of the Odisha State Energy Council. Dr. Prabodh Mohanty, Chairman of ASSOCHAM’s Odisha Mining and Steel Council, said Odisha’s shift to clean energy is essential, noting that the state’s mineral-rich economy is adapting to global supply chain expectations.
The event also included the release of the ASSOCHAM–EY Knowledge Report “Odisha Energy Transition – Chariots of Change,” presented by Somesh Kumar, Partner and Head (Power & Utilities), Ernst & Young.
The inaugural session ended with a vote of thanks from Perminder Jeet Kaur, Senior Director – East & Northeast, ASSOCHAM. The programme continued with a CEO roundtable with the Deputy Chief Minister and senior officials, followed by thematic plenary sessions.
The summit highlighted Odisha’s strong policy framework, investment potential, and determination to lead Eastern India’s journey toward a net-zero future.
