Skilling Renewables

India stands at a critical juncture in its energy transition journey, aiming to achieve 500 GW of renewable capacity by 2030.

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This ambitious target, pivotal for meeting international climate commitments, is threatened by a significant skills shortage in the renewable energy sector.

The gap is not just a technical shortcoming but a barrier to realising the broader goals of energy security, economic growth, and global leadership in green manufacturing.

The magnitude is stark. India faces a shortage of 1.2 million skilled workers, a figure projected to rise to 1.7 million by 2027. This deficit spans the entire value chain, from advanced manufacturing of solar panels and batteries to field operations like installations and maintenance.

While the government has allocated funds for skilling programmes, the current budget is inadequate. Industry leaders argue for a tenfold increase to bridge the gap effectively.

However, funding alone is not enough. Structural reforms in education and training are essential to align the workforce with the specific needs of the renewable sector.