Narendra Modi presents action plan to promote solar energy

New Delhi: With French President Emmanuel Macron by his side at the founding conference of the India-initiated International Solar Alliance (ISA) here, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday presented a 10-point action plan to promote the use of solar energy.

Speaking at the plenary session of the conference, Modi said there should be a full ecosystem for availability and development of technology, economic resources, development of storage technology, mass manufacturing and innovation.

"We all have to think about the road ahead and I have a 10-point action plan that I would like to share with you. "First of all, we should ensure cheap and easy availability of solar technology. The solar ratio in the energy mix should be increased and innovation should be encouraged so that solutions for our various needs can be provided," he said.

The Prime Minister called for concessional financing at lower risk for solar projects. He said regulatory aspects and standards should be developed to find solutions fast. "Consultancy support should be developed for bankable solar projects in developing nations.

"We should work for increased participation and inclusiveness. We should build a comprehensive network of centres of excellence keeping local circumstances and factors in mind. We should look at our solar energy policy development in totality so that this can play a role in meeting the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals of the UN)." Modi also called for a strong and professional ISA Secretariat located in Gurugram.