Assam has huge renewable energy potential, needs policy reforms: Experts

iFOREST research shows the need to accelerate renewable energy capacity expansion.

A new study released by the International Forum on Environment, Sustainability and Technology (iFOREST) ​​reveals Assam’s renewable energy (RE) power generation potential and the need for strengthening policy and institutional capacity building to facilitate large-scale RE expansion .

The research reports are titled “Reassessment of Renewable Energy Potential in Assam: Solar, Wind and Biomass in Focus”, “Promoting Renewable Energy Growth in Assam” and “ISTS Waiver for Solar Procurement in Assam” Economic Impact”, was revealed at a multi-stakeholder dialogue organized by iFOREST at Vivanta Hotel, Guwahati on March 27, 2024.

The findings show that Assam’s renewable energy generation potential is significantly higher than previous estimates by central government agencies. This potential is deemed sufficient to support a low-carbon pathway to meet the state’s growing electricity demand. However, the study highlights the need for policy tightening and institutional capacity building to overcome existing growth constraints.

Assam Power Generation Corporation Limited (APGCL) Managing Director Bibhu Bhuyan highlighted the utility’s commitment to green growth, with plans to expand power generation capacity to 2,000 MW by 2030, 92% of which will come from renewable energy sources.

However, iFOREST’s research shows the need to accelerate renewable energy capacity expansion. Assam’s electricity demand is expected to double by 2030, requiring nearly 3,000 MW of renewable energy generation capacity by 2026-27 and 5,000 MW of renewable energy generation capacity by 2031-32, To meet renewable energy obligations (RPO) and ensure energy security.

While the official assessment by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) estimates Assam’s renewable energy potential at 14.4 GW, iFOREST’s reassessment suggests that the capacity is significantly higher. To fully exploit this potential and stimulate investment in renewable energy, the structural challenges limiting industry growth must be addressed.