72GW Power Play: Andhra Pradesh’s Clean Energy Leap

Andhra Pradesh is forging an ambitious path toward a cleaner future by setting its sights on a massive 72.60 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2029.

At the heart of this surge is the state’s bold push into clean energy infrastructure, exemplified by the recently launched ReNew Renewable Energy Complex in Anantapur. Valued at Rs 22,000 crore, this flagship project is designed to generate 4.8 GW through a mix of solar, wind, and battery storage technologies.

In a ceremonial event of laying foundation stone for the ReNew Renewable Energy Complex in Anantapur, the state's Minister for Information Technology and Renewable Energy, Nara Lokesh said, 

At the Renewable Energy Invest Summit held in 2024, the state announced its goal of achieving 72 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity by 2029. 

Lokesh described the mission as “bold, urgent, and necessary.”

This isn’t just about a single project but a cornerstone in what the state calls the clean energy revolution, transforming the region’s energy landscape and setting the stage for sustainable, long-term growth.

The energy blueprint is part of a broader strategy propelled by an integrated policy framework that emphasizes forward-thinking investments with an eye on job creation and industrial advancement.

Over the past eight months, Andhra Pradesh has attracted substantial commitments from major players such as Tata Power, NTPC Green Hydrogen, Vedanta Sarantika, Sal Industries, and Brookfield.

With the approval of 19 new projects worth over Rs 33,720 crore and a total of 76 projects cleared since the current administration took charge, the state is not only expanding its renewable capacity but also setting an economic momentum that could generate hundreds of thousands of jobs. Regions like Rayalaseema are poised to emerge as renewable energy powerhouses, further demonstrating the state’s commitment to leveraging its natural advantages for economic and environmental gains.

This audacious initiative, backed by the vision of key leaders and the Integrated Clean Energy Policy launched in late 2024, reflects a broader trend of governments and industries steering towards green energy solutions. It’s a transformative move that highlights the potential of renewable investments to drive substantial economic benefits while mitigating climate change—one of the defining challenges of our time.

The scale and ambition of Andhra Pradesh’s clean energy drive invite a broader discussion on how such regional initiatives can influence national energy policies and even inspire global renewable energy advancements.

Andhra Pradesh’s 72GW target contributes significantly to India’s national renewable energy ambitions, which aim for 500GW by 2030. Other states like Gujarat and Rajasthan are also ramping up solar and wind projects.

Andhra Pradesh’s model is notable for its integrated clean energy policy, blending solar, wind, and battery storage while fostering industrial growth. It’s a bold move that could serve as a blueprint for other regions.

Notably, China leads the world in renewable energy deployment, with aggressive investments in solar and wind. And interestingly, China's focus on large-scale grid integration and battery storage mirrors Andhra Pradesh’s approach.

Countries like Germany and the UK use financial incentives to accelerate adoption. Germany’s feed-in tariffs encourage households to sell excess solar power to the grid, while the UK offers discounts for residents near wind farms.

Andhra Pradesh’s clean energy push aligns with global trends, but its scale and integrated approach make it stand out.