In Short : “Powering Progress: Jharkhand’s Renewable Energy and Storage Potential” is a recent paper that highlights the sharp discrepancy between the state’s enormous green energy potential and its actual output. As of the 2024–2025 fiscal year, the state had only constructed 434 MW, or 7% of its energy production mix, despite having the potential to access over 66 GW of renewable and pumped-hydro power.
Stalled Transition, Untapped Renewable Resource
Despite having a wealth of resources, including pumped hydro storage, solar power, and small hydro, Jharkhand’s potential for green energy is still untapped. Supported by CEED and the Jharkhand Sustainable Just Transition Task Force, the paper blames the deficiency on a lack of district-specific energy plans, planning, and research at the local level.
Linking Possibilities to Workable Plans
Unlocking renewable energy in Jharkhand, according to Task Force Chair AK Rastogi, might promote both economic resilience and environmental sustainability. To encourage a shift away from reliance on coal, recommendations include creating customized renewables plans for districts with the greatest potential, such as Giridih and Ranchi.
Wider Consequences: A Framework for the Development of Clean Energy
Ramapati Kumar, CEO of CEED, stressed that effectively utilizing Jharkhand’s renewable advantage is essential for both economic growth and regional energy security, as well as for serving as an example of an egalitarian, climate-aligned energy transition in Eastern India.
