Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh’s Urban Development and Energy Minister, . A.K. Sharma, inaugurated the UP Energy Xpo 2025 at the Indira Gandhi Pratishthan in Lucknow. The event, organized in collaboration between UPNEDA and PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, aims to promote innovation and investment in the renewable energy sector. After the formal ribbon-cutting ceremony, the minister toured the exhibition, observing cutting-edge energy solutions on display.
While addressing stakeholders and investors at the event, Sharma emphasized India’s journey towards self-reliance under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He highlighted the nation’s significant strides in domestic production, particularly in defense manufacturing and renewable energy. “Before 2014, India was heavily dependent on imports even for essential items. Today, we are manufacturing everything from basic goods to sophisticated weaponry, including the BrahMos missile in Lucknow and the development of a Defense Corridor in Bundelkhand,” he noted.
Focusing on India’s global commitment to climate action, Sharma reiterated the goal of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030. He encouraged stakeholders to invest in solar equipment and panel manufacturing in Uttar Pradesh, stating, “We must show the world that ‘Make in India’ is the most viable and sustainable option.”
He further highlighted the cultural relevance of clean energy, stating, “India has long been aligned with nature and sustainable practices. Despite criticism in 2007-08 about carbon emissions, Prime Minister Modi has shown the world that India will meet its energy demands in line with its cultural values. Our goal is to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2070.”
Sharma outlined the Uttar Pradesh Solar Energy Policy 2022, which aims to achieve 22 GW of solar energy. Over the past two and a half years, solar power production in the state has increased from 2,000 MW to 5,000 MW, with another 8,000–9,000 MW in the pipeline. So far, 1.25 lakh rooftop solar systems have been installed across government and private institutions, and 3.7 lakh farmers have solarized their irrigation systems.
He also shared that Ayodhya is being developed as a Solar City, with 10% of the city’s energy needs now being met through solar energy. A 40 MW solar plant has been established there, and other municipal corporations across the state will soon follow suit.
Addressing the business environment, the minister stated, “Uttar Pradesh’s ecosystem has transformed. Under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s leadership, the state has overcome law and order issues, creating a fully business-friendly environment. Investors can now confidently set up solar units, green energy facilities, and EV charging stations in the state.”
He added that significant improvements in the power sector have taken place under the RDSS (Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme) and other strategic business plans. The state’s robust power infrastructure, skilled workforce, and vast consumer market now make it an ideal destination for energy investments.
Calling UP Energy Xpo 2025 a historic first for the state, Sharma said, “This expo marks a significant milestone. It provides a dynamic platform for startups, innovators, and industry leaders in renewable energy to collaborate and move Uttar Pradesh toward a greener, cleaner future.”
The three-day expo (May 8–10) will feature presentations, discussions, and showcases on renewable energy, smart power grids, clean energy, green innovations, and sustainable technologies.
Also present at the inauguration were Additional Chief Secretary (Energy and Alternative Energy Sources) Narendra Bhushan, key office bearers from PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and prominent stakeholders and investors from the energy sector.
