17.10.2024: Maha Governor inaugurates World Trade Expo on Green, Renewable Energy in Mumbai
Maha Governor inaugurates World Trade Expo on Green, Renewable Energy in Mumbai
Maharashtra Governor C P Radhakrishnan inaugurated the 5th edition of the World Trade Expo organised by the World Trade Centre Mumbai and All India Association of Industries (AIAI) at World Trade Centre Mumbai on Thursday (17 Oct).
The theme of the Expo was ‘Innovation for Sustainability with Special Focus on Green and Renewable Energy.’
Chairman of World Trade Centre Mumbai and Chairman of All India Association of Industries Vijay Kalantri, former Secretary of the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, Government of India Ajay Shankar, Vice Chairman of WTC Mumbai Capt Somesh Batra, Exe Director Rupa Naik, Consuls and trade representatives of various countries were present. Earlier the Governor visited the Expo and interacted with exhibitors.
Speaking on the occasion, the Governor said:
“I congratulate the World Trade Centre Mumbai and the All India Association of Industries for their efforts in putting up this grand Trade Expo.
This year’s theme, ‘Innovation for Sustainability with a Special Focus on Green and Renewable Energy,’ could not be more timely.
As we move toward a future defined by our commitment to sustainable growth, the importance of green and renewable energy cannot be overstated.
It is not just an environmental concern but a critical element of India’s Energy Security Vision and its journey toward achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
Maharashtra, as the largest economy and one of India’s leading industrial states, plays a pivotal role in this national mission. The state ranks 2nd in total installed electricity capacity, accounting for 10.4% of the national total.
We are proud to lead in areas like solar energy, electric vehicles, and bioenergy, and we remain committed to fostering innovation and investment in renewable energy.
Since taking charge as the Governor of Maharashtra, I have travelled extensively in almost two-thirds of the Districts of Maharashtra. I am amazed by the potential of Maharashtra for growth and development. Our rural areas are holding potential for growth. Even previously naxal affected areas like Gadchiroli hold the promise of industrial growth and development.
This is indeed a landmark year for Maharashtra’s green energy sector. I was pleased to know that ‘Manyachi Wadi’ village in Satara, recently became the first ‘Solar Village’ of the state, with 100% of its electricity supplied through solar power.
This achievement sets a model for the future. Currently, Maharashtra’s solar power capacity stands at 5,080 MW, and under the Unconventional Energy Generation Policy of 2020, we aim to increase this to 12,930 MW by 2025.
Another exciting frontier is green hydrogen. Last year, Maharashtra became the first state in the country to announce a Green Hydrogen Policy, with a target to produce 500 kilotonnes of green hydrogen annually.
This policy is aimed at promoting industrial decarbonization, enhancing energy security, and positioning Maharashtra as a leader in the export of green hydrogen.
I am confident that Maharashtra will be instrumental in achieving India’s national target of 5 million metric tonnes of green hydrogen per annum by 2030 under the Green Hydrogen Mission.
In the electric vehicle sector, Maharashtra is again leading the way. Our State Electric Vehicle Policy prioritizes the manufacturing and adoption of electric vehicles by creating a robust network of charging stations and infrastructure.
The policy aims for EVs to make up 10% of all vehicle registrations by 2025, and collaborations with international partners from countries like Australia and Germany are underway to further bolster clean power generation.
Through various subsidies and incentives, from solar panels to solar inverters for textile units, Maharashtra’s Renewable Energy Policy is designed to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.
Maharashtra’s commitment to creating an ecosystem that fosters innovation, sustainability, and clean energy is unwavering. In my capacity as the Chancellor of universities in Maharashtra, I will call upon the industry work closely with the Universities in the State in the areas of research, development and skill development.
I wish and hope that all the participating countries at this Expo will explore the numerous opportunities our state offers in renewable energy and to contribute to our collective journey toward a green and sustainable future.”