Bhopal: The Department of Energy, Government of Madhya Pradesh, in collaboration with APAC Media, successfully hosted the 4th National Sustainable Energy Innovation Conclave in Bhopal. The conclave convened senior government officials, technology leaders, energy sector experts, and industry stakeholders to explore sustainable solutions for transforming India’s energy landscape under the theme “Powering the Future: A Sustainable Path to Vikshit Bharat 2047.”
Opening the Dialogue on Innovation and Collaboration
The event commenced with the inauguration of a Technology and Innovation Exhibition, followed by a high-profile inaugural session featuring notable speakers, including:
- Pradhuman Singh Tomar, Hon’ble Energy Minister of Madhya Pradesh
- Sudeep Jain, IAS, Additional Secretary, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India
- Neeraj Mandloi, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Energy Department, Government of Madhya Pradesh
- Avinash Lavania, IAS, MD, MP Power Management Company Limited, Government of Madhya Pradesh
Speaking at the event, Hon’ble Minister Pradhuman Singh Tomar emphasised the need for collaborative innovation:
“We should focus on collaboration with technology experts. It’s time to seek more third-party technology solution providers to come and invest in Madhya Pradesh.”
Sudeep Jain, IAS, underscored the importance of strategic planning and financing in renewable growth:
“We can surpass the 500 GW renewable energy target by 2030 by driving sustainable initiatives in the sector. The PM Surya Ghar program emphasises the critical role of financing mechanisms in driving three critical sustainable initiatives.”
Neeraj Mandloi, IAS, highlighted the state’s strategic priorities:
“Madhya Pradesh is working towards strengthening its energy infrastructure to meet rising demand from industrial expansion and urbanisation. With an increasing focus on clean energy, there is a need to prioritise renewable projects, in line with national energy transition goals.”
Avinash Lavania, IAS, reinforced the dual need for quality service and cost efficiency:
“We have the responsibility of providing a quality power supply to all consumers, reducing AT&C losses, and improving the overall financial health of the power sector. Simultaneously, we have to minimise the power purchase cost while ensuring a 24×7 power supply.”
Showcasing Technological Advancements and Renewable Vision
The day featured a wide range of technology and industry presentations, led by energy leaders from Tata Power Central Odisha Distribution Company, Zscaler, Schneider Electric, XtraNet Technologies, and STEAG India, covering topics from digital ecosystems to cybersecurity.
During the session on Renewables: The Way Forward – Vikshit Madhya Pradesh: Vision 2047, Rakesh Shukla, Hon’ble Minister, New & Renewable Energy Department, reiterated the government’s commitment:
“We are signing MoUs with partners to drive the successful execution of renewable energy projects in the state. These projects will benefit farmers and ensure effective implementation of solar energy solutions across Madhya Pradesh.”
Manu Srivastava, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, New and Renewable Energy Department, delved into financial and structural innovation in solar energy:
“A careful structuring of the project risk-sharing mechanism helps in low tariffs for solar power projects. The assured offtake of power and provision of deemed generation beyond 50 hours of backup is another groundbreaking mechanism for solar energy deployment.”
Panel Discussions & Knowledge Exchange
Multiple expert panels took place throughout the day:
The event concluded with a valedictory session chaired by Manu Srivastava, IAS, showcasing pioneering solutions by the Solar Energy Corporation of India and academic contributions from MANIT Bhopal.
A Strong Step Toward a Sustainable Energy Future
The conclave marked a significant milestone in Madhya Pradesh’s ongoing efforts to become a national leader in sustainable energy. By fostering public-private partnerships, promoting technology adoption, and emphasising renewable energy execution, the state is aligned with India’s goal of becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Support from Industry Partners
The conclave was supported by presenting partner Torrent Power, Co-presenting partner Zscaler, Platinum partner Schneider Electric, Banking partner Yono SBI, PSU partners NTPC Ltd., SECI, & Powergrid, Gold partner Xtranet, and Associate partners Bharat Bijlee, CG Power, Sterlite, Technical Associates Limited, Steag, APAR, & ASHTECH.
