The inaugural International Solar Festival commenced today, bringing together world leaders, dignitaries, and energy experts to celebrate the global impact of solar energy. The event, organized by the International Solar Alliance (ISA), highlighted the significance of solar power in driving sustainable development and addressing global energy challenges.
In his opening address, the Indian Prime Minister congratulated the International Solar Alliance for this groundbreaking initiative, emphasizing the universal respect for the Sun across cultures. “The Vedas, composed thousands of years ago, honor the Sun through popular mantras, and this tradition continues today,” he noted, adding that solar energy is key to building a better planet.
The Prime Minister also reflected on the growth of the ISA, which began as a small initiative in 2015 and has since grown to include 100 member countries. Nineteen more countries are in the process of ratifying the framework agreement to achieve full membership. “ISA’s growth is vital for realizing the vision of ‘One World, One Sun, One Grid,’” he said.
India’s leadership in green energy, particularly solar energy, took center stage during the speech. The Prime Minister lauded the country’s efforts, stating, “India was the first G20 nation to achieve the Paris Agreement commitments in renewable energy.” He highlighted that India’s solar capacity has grown 32-fold in the past decade, contributing to the goal of achieving 500 gigawatts of non-fossil capacity by 2030.
The Prime Minister outlined India’s strategy for advancing solar adoption, based on three key principles: awareness, availability, and affordability. He also mentioned the recent launch of the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, a scheme aimed at helping 10 million households install rooftop solar panels, with an investment of ₹750 billion. The scheme offers direct financial assistance, low-interest loans, and the potential for households to sell excess power to the grid, making solar energy an attractive option for Indian citizens.
In discussing ISA’s achievements, the Prime Minister noted that the Alliance has supported the development of nearly 10 gigawatts of electricity in 44 countries and helped reduce the global price of solar pumps. ISA is also encouraging private sector investments, particularly in African member countries, and fostering solar startups in Africa, Asia-Pacific, and India, with plans to expand these initiatives to Latin America and the Caribbean.
The Prime Minister stressed the need for a collective approach to energy transition. He called for addressing the imbalance in green energy investments, democratizing manufacturing and technology for developing countries, and prioritizing the empowerment of marginalized communities, women, and youth.
“India remains committed to working with the world towards a green future,” he affirmed, highlighting the nation’s leadership in creating the Global Biofuels Alliance during last year’s G20 summit and its role as a founding member of the ISA.
As the International Solar Festival progresses, discussions are expected to focus on strategies for enhancing global solar adoption, fostering cross-border collaborations, and ensuring an inclusive energy transition for all. The Prime Minister concluded his remarks by expressing confidence that the festival would pave the way for a sustainable future, guided by the power of the Sun.
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