Que: Datta Infra has set a target of developing over 1 GW of renewable energy projects within the next three years. What are the key drivers behind this expansion, and how do you plan to achieve this?

Ans: Besides EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) focused entity, Datta Infra is aiming to expand to become an an asset-owning company, with a strong emphasis on solar project development. Starting this year 2025, we will expand our operations by developing solar projects for third parties under EPC agreements, in addition to our pre-development activities.

While we will continue to be driven by EPC operations, we are actively exploring new opportunities in this space. Our shift from pre-development to full-scale project development will make EPC-driven solar projects a central focus of our operations.

Having successfully delivered 10,000 MW over the past four years, we are committed to large-scale infrastructure development. Our ongoing investments in Renewable Energy Projects will help us achieve our target of developing over 1 GW of Renewable Energy Projects across India, within the next three years.

Que: What are the company's long-term growth plans for renewable energy? What capacity do you aim to reach by 2030?

Ans: Datta Infra has so far achieved IPP Projects with a capacity of about 1100 MW and EPC Projects with a capacity of about 8100 MW across multiple states, including Rajasthan, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. Notably, our flagship 6000 MW solar projects in Rajasthan, being developed on private and government land by Datta Infra, is a vital contributor to India’s renewable energy goals. This Park alone is a significant pillar of Rajasthan’s target of achieving 80-90 GW of renewable capacity by 2030, while also catalysing job creation in the region. Our rapid progress—reaching 10,000 MW in just four years—can be credited to efficient and effective knowledge of micromanagement focused on large-scale infrastructure deployment.

The renewable energy sector is growing rapidly, with many changes are on the horizon. Our primary focus will remain on renewable energy, specifically in developing solar, hybrid, or wind projects. Additionally, we are planning to venture into hydrogen projects.

Also, in the Renewable Energy sector, the government has merged the solar and wind sectors. As a result, there are very few tenders exclusively for solar or wind projects. The government’s focus is now primarily on hybrid projects. Going forward, hybrid projects will dominate, and it is unlikely that the government will issue tenders exclusively for solar or wind projects.

In the short term, we expect this initiative to positively impact the regional economy and drive revenue growth of 15-20 percent by the end of FY 2025. Additionally, our Rs 1,500 crore financing agreement with REC Limited will bolster project execution.

Achieving net-zero emissions is central to India’s climate goals. The government’s Renewable Energy Purchase Obligations are the reasons for driving investments, and the market for carbon credits offers new revenue opportunities. At Datta Infra, we are also exploring partnerships with commercial and industrial (C&I) sectors.

As India embarks on a transformative shift toward renewable energy, Datta Infra is committed to providing a sustainable future, contributing significantly to a cleaner energy landscape by 2030.

Que: With an 8,000 MW pipeline in renewable energy parks, how do you plan to scale up project execution, while ensuring efficiency and sustainability?

Ans: We are laying the groundwork for 8,000 MW of renewable energy parks by leveraging advanced technologies and strategic management practices. Datta Infra employs digital tools such as DGPS, drone surveys, and custom ERP systems for real-time monitoring and efficient coordination.

In solar energy, we are deploying cutting-edge AI applications, including SCADA systems and robotic cleaning technologies that use sunlight to clean panels. This helps maintain optimal photovoltaic performance, reduces water usage, and improves efficiency by preventing dust accumulation on the panels.

Wind power is also advancing, with new 4-5 MW turbine models enhancing the competitiveness of the wind energy sector.

Government support will be critical in scaling up plug-and-play renewable energy parks, particularly in high-potential states. This will provide a seamless pathway for developers and complement ongoing efforts to accelerate India’s clean energy transition.

Que: Your recent MoU with REC Limited will fund 500 MW of wind, solar and hybrid projects. Can you share details on project locations and timelines?

Ans: Our MoU with REC Limited lays the foundation for developing 2 GW of wind, solar, and wind-solar hybrid projects across India, including locations in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh. These projects will generate 800-900 million units (MU) of green energy annually, providing reliable and clean power through a balanced mix of solar and wind resources. The projects are slated for completion within 18-24 months from the signing of the Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), marking a significant milestone in Datta Infra’s commitment to advancing India’s green energy transition.

Que: How do you assess the potential of hybrid projects in India? What advantages do they offer over standalone solar or wind projects?

Ans: Hybrid projects, particularly wind-solar hybrids, hold immense potential in India due to the country’s diverse geography. They enable complementary power generation from both sources, leading to higher power output, better grid stability, and optimised land use. This makes hybrid projects a promising solution for achieving India’s ambitious renewable energy targets. States such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan are particularly well-suited for these developments.

Que: What percentage of Datta Infra’s budget is allocated to R&D in clean energy technologies? Are there any specific breakthrough technologies or digital innovations that you are planning to integrate?

Ans: We have allocated 5 percent of our budget to R&D in clean energy technologies. Innovation is at the core of Datta Power Infra's engineering strategy. We offer engineering, procurement, construction, and maintenance for transmission lines, solar parks, and wind parks, providing comprehensive energy solutions. We continuously leverage cutting-edge technologies and creative solutions to tackle industry challenges. While we are currently focused on EPC projects, we anticipate transitioning to asset ownership in the next year or two. This shift will require significant R&D investments, which are planned for 2026-2027. Our future focus will be on developing advanced clean energy technologies and integrating digital innovations to optimise project execution and asset management.

Recently, we've adopted advanced chain-link fencing technology, which not only improves security but also reduces installation time, thereby enhancing overall project efficiency. Moreover, our engineering teams are leveraging smart grid technology to optimise energy distribution and enhance the reliability of our transmission lines. These innovations reflect our commitment to staying ahead of the curve and delivering state-of-the-art renewable energy solutions.

Que: Can you elaborate on some recent partnerships that have been instrumental in the company’s growth? Are there any new collaborations or innovations in the pipeline?

Ans: Securing a INR 1,500-crore financing agreement with REC marks a significant milestone in Datta Infra’s growth journey, empowering us to scale up our renewable energy projects. Our flagship 6,000 MW solar project in Rajasthan, developed as an EPC initiative, is pivotal in helping the state achieve its ambitious renewable energy target of 80-90 GW by 2030, while also driving economic growth and creating job opportunities.

Additionally, we recently signed an INR 5,000 crore MOU with the Government of Rajasthan at the Rising Rajasthan Summit.

Looking ahead, we are actively exploring new partnerships and innovations to improve project efficiency and sustainability, further strengthening our commitment to India’s vision of a sustainable energy future.