Balancing Community & Sustainability In The Renewable Energy Era

AGARWAL on the role of community engagement in advancing renewable energy projects without compromising local well-being

- Pratik Agarwal,

The world stands at a turning point—transitioning from the fossil fuel-powered present to a future fuelled by the sun and wind. The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) paints a compelling picture: 86 per cent of all new power capacity added in 2023 came from renewable sources. This momentum recently received a further boost at COP28, where world leaders pledged to triple the global renewable energy capacity to at least 11,000 GW by 2030.

These are ambitious goals, demanding vast landscapes for solar farms, wind turbines, and transmission lines. However, land is a finite resource, and the journey towards a sustainable future cannot come at the cost of displacing communities or compromising environmental integrity.

The NRSS-29 Project

Engaging local stakeholders in open discussions throughout a project’s lifecycle is essential. This ensures their concerns are heard and addressed, fostering trust, and avoiding disruptions.