Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday presented a 10-point action plan to promote the use of solar energy at the founding conference of the India-initiated International Solar Alliance (ISA) in New Delhi. French President Emmanuel Macron, who is on a four day visit to India, was also present at the conference.

“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,” PM Modi said.

The Prime Minister called for concessional financing and less-risky funds for solar projects to raise the share of solar power in the energy basket, provide cheaper electricity and cut carbon emissions.

Speaking at the founding conference, he said India will generate 175 gigawatts (GW) of electricity from renewable energy sources by 2022. This would be more than double the present renewable energy capacity and would be enough to overtake renewable expansion in the European Union for the first time.

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),” he said.

Earlier today, PM Modi and French President Macron inaugurated the first International Solar Alliance (ISA) Summit at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre.

The two leaders and other heads of participating nations placed their hands on illuminated globes to mark the symbolic launch of the Summit.

(With agencies inputs)