Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar highlighted India’s focus on innovation, affordability, and global collaboration in the power sector at the Bharat Electricity Summit 2026. He noted India’s achievement of 50% non-fossil fuel-based electricity capacity ahead of schedule and mentioned initiatives like PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana and the SHANTI Act 2025 that have accelerated the clean energy transition. India’s shift from a power-deficit to a power-surplus nation with significant growth in renewable energy was also emphasized by the minister.
India’s solar capacity has surged from 2.8 GW to over 143 GW in recent years, with preparations underway to meet increasing electricity demands, including a peak demand of 270 GW and beyond. The country, having successfully managed 250 GW in 2024-25, is expected to attract substantial investments of around Rs 200 lakh crore over the next two decades. The focus is on expanding transmission infrastructure, enhancing cross-border energy connectivity, and developing undersea transmission networks to position India as a global exporter of affordable energy in the long term.
The ongoing global conference-cum-exhibition at Yashobhoomi has gathered policymakers, industry leaders, and experts worldwide to deliberate on the future of the power sector. Minister Khattar described the summit as a “Conference of Light,” showcasing India’s commitment to leading the global energy transition. He emphasized the pivotal role of energy in India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, addressing the audience, highlighted the importance of renewable energy as the sustainable path for the future, alongside the continued significance of thermal power. He stressed the necessity of a balanced transition supported by scale, speed, and skill.
