Que: How does Avaada align its growth strategy with India’s target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030?

Ans: Avaada has always been at the forefront of India's clean energy transition. We were pioneers in setting up India’s first 15 MW solar project in 2010-11, then the largest ground-mounted solar installation. We followed it up with a 151 MW project, the biggest in Asia at the time, and later commissioned a record-breaking 1,250 MW solar project – the largest in the world.

Today, we are developing multiple 5 GW solar projects and expanding into wind, pumped hydro storage, and battery energy storage solutions. Our company name, inspired by Ayurveda, reflects our deep-rooted commitment to sustainability. At Avaada, we believe that every entrepreneur should integrate environmental responsibility into their business ethos.

With an ambitious goal of exceeding 30 GW of renewable capacity by 2030, our vision aligns seamlessly with India’s renewable energy roadmap. However, the timely expansion of the Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) will be crucial in realising this target.

Que: How does Avaada collaborate with policymakers and industry stakeholders to shape India’s energy future?

Ans: Collaboration is key to scaling sustainable energy. At Avaada, we actively work with the Sustainable Projects Developers Association (SPDA) and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), where I chair the Energy Transition Group. Our engagements span state and central governments, where we provide policy recommendations grounded in real-world challenges and industry experience.

We participate in quarterly meetings with government officials and contribute actively to monthly discussions led by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and the Ministry of Power. Unlike many other sectors, the renewable energy ministry is highly proactive, recognising that this space is rapidly evolving and requires constant dialogue. This strong public-private partnership ensures swift action on emerging challenges, whether related to state policies or advancements in technology.

Que: Avaada has made significant investments in green hydrogen. Can you elaborate on your green hydrogen projects and their expected impact?

Ans: Green hydrogen is not just an alternative fuel; it’s a game-changer in achieving energy self-sufficiency and decarbonising hard-to-abate industries. India currently imports USD 120–160 billion worth of crude oil annually, which contributes to a current account deficit. Developing green fuels like hydrogen and ammonia will help India transition towards energy independence and strengthen its economic resilience.

Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, Avaada is developing a 500,000-tonne green ammonia plant in Odisha. We have recently awarded the detailed engineering contract and partnered with Casale (Switzerland) for technology implementation. The project is progressing well and will be a significant step toward making India a global hub for green hydrogen production.

Que: How do you see India’s green hydrogen market evolving, and what policy support is needed?

Ans: India's renewable energy revolution was built on strong policy support, particularly the Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs), which created a market for solar and wind even when they were costlier than conventional power. Over time, this led to renewable energy becoming the cheapest power source, driving large-scale adoption.

A similar policy-driven approach is needed for green hydrogen and green ammonia. To unlock this sector’s full potential, we require:
● Mandatory Green Hydrogen Purchase Obligations (GHPOs) for industries like refining, fertilizers, and chemicals.
● Viability Gap Funding (VGF) and Production-Linked Incentives (PLI) to make green hydrogen cost-competitive.
● A robust domestic demand framework that ensures long-term offtake agreements, much like the early days of solar and wind.

These measures will catalyse investments, drive cost reductions, and position India as a global leader in green hydrogen.