1. India is undergoing a major energy transition. What role do you see the Gujarat government playing in balancing growth with sustainability?
As India undertakes one of the world’s most ambitious energy transitions, Gujarat is leading by example-balancing rapid industrial growth with a strong commitment to sustainability. In this exclusive interview, Meenakshie Mehta speaks with Shri Ajay Prakash, IAS, a key architect of Gujarat’s clean energy push. From pioneering renewable energy policies and overcoming implementation challenges to fostering impactful public-private collaborations, Shri Prakash shares insights into how the state is shaping a greener, more resilient future and contributing meaningfully to India’s Net-Zero vision for 2070.
1. India is undergoing a major energy transition. What role do you see the Gujarat government playing in balancing growth with sustainability?
Gujarat has been at the forefront of India’s energy transition, consistently aligning economic growth with environmental sustainability. Through visionary policies such as the Gujarat Renewable Energy Policy- 2023, Gujarat Waste to Energy Policy-2022, Gujarat Small Hydel Policy – 2016, the state is aggressively promoting solar, wind, and hybrid systems. Gujarat leads by example, with significant installed renewable capacity, proactive policy reforms, land and transmission facilitation, and investor-friendly governance. Our approach integrates clean energy into economic planning, ensuring green growth for industries, agriculture, and urban development.
2. As an administrator, what have been some of the key challenges in implementing clean energy policies at the ground level?
Implementing clean energy policies at the grassroots involves addressing land acquisition hurdles, transmission constraints, local community engagement, skill gaps, and inter-agency coordination. Additionally, sensitizing stakeholders, managing evolving regulatory frameworks, and ensuring quality standards across decentralized installations require continuous capacity building and on-ground monitoring.
3. How do you envision India achieving its Net-zero Goals by 2070? What practical steps are being taken now to lay the foundation?
India’s net-zero goal is ambitious yet achievable through a phased and inclusive approach. Gujarat is contributing by expanding renewable energy infrastructure, promoting electric mobility, implementing waste-to-energy and Bioenergy projects, and fostering energy-efficient technologies. Steps like solarization of agriculture feeders under PM-KUSUM, electrification of rural areas, and integrating carbon trading mechanisms at the state level are laying the groundwork for a decarbonized economy.
4. Public-private partnerships are crucial in the energy sector. Could you share examples where such collaborations have created measurable impact?
Gujarat has successfully implemented numerous PPP-based renewable projects. A notable example is the Dholera Solar Park, developed in collaboration with private developers and central agencies. Additionally, rooftop solar programs across commercial and industrial segments have scaled up due to partnerships with EPC contractors, DISCOMs, and financial institutions.
5. Finally, what message would you like to share with young civil servants and entrepreneurs working toward a sustainable energy future for India?
Be visionary, yet grounded in purpose. India’s sustainable energy future relies on innovation, inclusivity, and integrity. Gujarat’s rise as a renewable energy leader shows what’s possible when policy and passion align. Civil servants can shape inclusive, effective policies, while entrepreneurs drive innovation at the grassroots. Together, you hold the power to accelerate the clean energy transition. Collaboration and commitment are vital. A sustainable future isn’t a distant goal—it’s a shared responsibility we must act on now