What's Happening?
The Gujarat government has introduced three significant energy policies to transition the state towards renewable energy sources. These policies include the Gujarat Integrated Renewable Energy Policy-2025, Gujarat Green Hydrogen Policy-2025, and Gujarat Pumped
Storage Project Policy-2025. The initiatives aim to establish Gujarat as a leader in green energy, with a target of over 100 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030. The policies are expected to generate over 20 lakh jobs and focus on increasing women's participation in the workforce. The state plans to invest more than Rs 5 lakh crore in renewable energy and green hydrogen, potentially creating around six lakh jobs. The policies also include incentives for companies investing in green hydrogen and renewable energy, such as capital subsidies and grid charge reimbursements.
Why It's Important?
These policies are crucial as they align with India's national goal of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity. By focusing on renewable energy, Gujarat is not only contributing to national targets but also addressing environmental concerns by reducing carbon emissions. The policies are expected to reduce the use of natural gas by at least 2 million metric tonnes annually and cut carbon dioxide emissions by about 5 million metric tonnes per year. This transition supports India's clean manufacturing and net-zero efforts, potentially positioning Gujarat as a hub for green energy innovation and job creation. The focus on green hydrogen and renewable energy could also lead to technological advancements and increased investment in the sector.
What's Next?
The Gujarat government will oversee the implementation of these policies through apex committees chaired by the Chief Minister. The state aims to set up a production capacity of 3 million tonnes of green hydrogen per year, supported by 30 GW of electrolyser capacity and 75 GW of renewable energy capacity. The government is also promoting battery energy storage systems to improve grid stability. The policies encourage private sector participation and start-ups, linking job creation with skill development. Gujarat aims to develop 100 pumped storage projects by 2047, with a target of 75 GWh of pumped storage capacity and investments of Rs 75,000 crore by 2035.
