The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Andhra Pradesh recently organized the 2nd edition of ENERCON at Visakhapatnam.

The event brought together industry stalwarts, experts, and thought leaders to explore and promote energy efficiency in the Indian industrial landscape.

Addressing the gathering Mr. S Ramana Reddy, Vice Chairman & Managing Director, NREDCAP, stressed the global move towards Net Zero targets in combating climate change. 

He highlighted Andhra Pradesh’s strategic position to leverage opportunities and establish a green hydrogen economy in the state. 

Mr. Reddy outlined the potential of Green Hydrogen production through Renewable Energy sources like Solar and Wind Power to reduce carbon emissions in the power sector and transportation, aligning with the Mission LiFE objectives.

The Government of Andhra Pradesh’s promotion of Pumped Storage Hydro Power Projects (PSP) to balance Variable Renewable Energy and meet peak power demand was highlighted. 

Techno-Commercial feasibility reports for 29 locations were prepared, estimating a potential of 33,240 MW. DPRs are being formulated for 20,900 MW in a phased manner.

Similarly, Mr. Prudhvi Tej Immadi, IAS., Chairman & Managing Director, APEPDCL, emphasized the increasing need for storage grids with the rise of renewable energy. 

He commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s One Sun One World One Grid (OSOWOG) initiative, aimed at linking the world to clean solar energy.

Mr. Immadi mentioned the installation of smart meters across industrial units, commercial ventures, and government offices to enhance energy audit capabilities and curb power theft.

Dr. V Murali Krishna, Vice Chairman, CII Andhra Pradesh said “ENERCON 2023 is a significant step towards making Indian industries energy-efficient and globally competitive. 

We have collaborated with energy-intensive sectors to create sectoral benchmarks for energy efficiency. CII’s ‘Net Zero Movement’ is crucial to strengthen sustainability efforts in the country.”

Mr Neeraj Sarda, Immediate Past Chairman, CII Andhra Pradesh & Deputy Managing Director, Sarda Metals & Alloys too in his address spoke on the need to reduce carbon intensity and become Net Zero.

In order to translate this target into reality, laying out a pathway to reduce emissions is going to be the next step he opined and said that Indian industrial sector has a pivotal role to play in this.

It further noted that innovation and sustainability are not merely regulatory requirements but strategic imperatives for long-term success in a green economy.