Odisha took a significant step towards strengthening its clean energy transition and climate-resilient development strategy with a high-level workshop on “Scaling AgriPV in Odisha for Climate-Resilient Growth” held in Bhubaneswar on Friday. The event brought together policymakers, energy experts, renewable energy developers, and representatives from the agriculture sector to discuss the future of agrivoltaics (AgriPV) in the state.
Major Initiatives Unveiled
The workshop was inaugurated by Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, during which several key initiatives aimed at accelerating Odisha’s renewable energy journey were launched.
Among the major launches were:
- The report titled “Empowering Farmers through AgriPV”, jointly prepared by GRIDCO Ltd. and Vasudha Foundation.
- The Odisha State Energy Action Plan (OSEAP) web platform for long-term energy planning and decision-making.
- Two 150-metre Wind Resource Assessment Masts at Sonapur and Gopalpur in Ganjam district.
- Battery Energy Storage Purchase Agreements for a 125 MW / 500 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project spread across six substations in the state.
AgriPV Can Boost Farmers’ Income
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo highlighted the transformative potential of AgriPV, which combines agricultural activities with solar power generation on the same land.
He said that AgriPV has the capacity to enhance farmers’ incomes while simultaneously contributing to Odisha’s renewable energy targets. The initiative, he noted, aligns with the state’s vision of building a climate-resilient and farmer-centric development model under the “Viksit Odisha” framework.
Focus on Renewable Energy and Energy Security
Additional Chief Secretary of the Energy Department, Vishal Kumar Dev, emphasized Odisha’s comprehensive approach to energy transition.
He stated that the state is actively integrating renewable energy generation, battery storage solutions, and data-driven planning mechanisms to meet the growing electricity demand while ensuring long-term energy security and sustainability.
GRIDCO Highlights Inclusive Rural Growth
Speaking at the event, Dr. Satyapriya Rath, Managing Director of GRIDCO, underscored the role of AgriPV in fostering sustainable rural development.
He said that the combination of agrivoltaics, battery storage infrastructure, and modern energy planning tools can drive inclusive growth, create new income opportunities for farmers, and support Odisha’s clean energy ambitions.
Discussions on Policy and Financing
The workshop concluded with detailed technical sessions focusing on policy frameworks, financing models, and implementation strategies required to scale AgriPV projects across Odisha.
Experts and stakeholders exchanged views on addressing challenges and creating a supportive ecosystem to accelerate the adoption of agrivoltaic systems, ensuring that renewable energy expansion goes hand in hand with agricultural prosperity and climate resilience.
Strengthening Odisha’s Green Energy Future
The initiatives unveiled during the workshop reflect Odisha’s growing commitment to renewable energy, energy storage, and climate-resilient development. With a focus on empowering farmers and expanding clean energy infrastructure, the state is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable and inclusive growth in eastern India.