This presentation discusses the advantages of considering India’s Rajasthan State as a solar destination. The development of solar parks as a joint venture public-private partnership is introduced. It also explains the benefits of forming a public-private joint venture company.

This presentation features an energy distribution initiative introduced in Mousuni Island near India’s Kolkata City by the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur. It aims to integrate both traditional grid and micro grid systems with various renewable energy sources to create electricity that is efficient, low-cost, and environmentally friendly.

South Asia’s rapid growth is met with an increasing crisis in energy demand. Strategic investments in human capital is needed to address this major challenge in energy security. The productive engagement of women in training and employment opportunities accelerates access to renewable energy sources that will sustain growth and development.

Opportunities to integrate social inclusion and gender elements in risk mitigation for project affected areas in large infrastructure projects can potentially bring important benefits to women and vulnerable groups. Projects deemed to have strong “some gender elements” according to the Asian Development Bank’s gender mainstreaming categories can be considered.

Energy access by itself encompasses the concept of inclusivity. The Government of India’s vision is to create Ujawal Bharat by providing 24x7 power to all by 2019. State specific action plans are currently being prepared to ensure both existing and unconnected consumers have access to quality power in phases.