Odisha Signs MoU with GEAPP to Boost Clean Energy Transition

Bhubaneswar, Nov 24: Odisha has taken a significant step toward accelerating its clean energy transition by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) on Monday. The partnership aims to strengthen the state’s renewable energy ecosystem through planning, technical support, pilot initiatives, and financing pathways.

The MoU was formalized in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister and Energy Minister K.V. Singh Deo, who termed the initiative a strategic collaboration to make Odisha’s energy future “resilient, equitable, and investment-ready.” He emphasized that the partnership combines policy support, technical expertise, and implementation frameworks to transform Odisha’s sustainability goals into measurable results.

Under the agreement, Odisha and GEAPP will jointly work on energy transition roadmaps, grid modernization, utility digitization, and renewable energy integration. Demand-side management initiatives will also be introduced to improve consumption efficiency and manage peak electricity loads.

A key focus area will be the deployment of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). GEAPP will support agencies including the Department of Energy, GRIDCO, OREDA, and state DISCOMs in conducting feasibility studies, selecting substations, integrating renewable energy, and preparing procurement strategies. The alliance will also design monitoring frameworks to enhance the technical and financial efficiency of BESS projects.

Beyond infrastructure, the collaboration will support renewable-powered livelihood initiatives. These include scaling solar irrigation under PM-KUSUM and promoting the Decentralized Energy for Women’s Economic Empowerment (DEWEE) initiative to help women-led enterprises adopt clean energy solutions. Additional work will target solarization of MSMEs to reduce operating costs and generate green employment opportunities.

Balangir district has been identified as the model district for implementation. The Energy Department will coordinate with government bodies, industry, academia, and civil society while ensuring close monitoring and evaluation of progress.

The signing ceremony was attended by Principal Secretary of Energy Vishal Kumar Dev, OPTCL CMD Bhaskar Jyoti Sarma, and senior representatives from GEAPP and the Energy Department.