Uninterrupted and affordable electricity for economically weaker sections and rural citizens was the focus as Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the Global Energy Leaders’ Summit (GELS) 2025 in Puri on December 6. With Odisha positioning itself as a national hub for long-term energy cooperation, Majhi said access to reliable power is critical for inclusive growth.
GELS is witnessing one of the largest gatherings in the state in recent years as India’s first COP-style platform dedicated to energy collaboration is focussed on bringing investments in the energy sector.
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Odisha spends over six per cent of its gross state domestic product (GSDP) to capital expenditure, said Majhi, stressing how investments will help in building future-ready infrastructure.
“Every state has its own strengths and priorities that must be brought together for national progress,” said the chief minister, “and we are investing in future generations and electricity is a top priority."
Majhi said GELS 2025 would become the first nationwide mechanism that brings Union and state governments, global agencies, industry leaders and research institutions onto a single platform for sustained energy dialogue, moving beyond fragmented or short-term consultations.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi. At the launch of the event, Joshi announced the approval of 1.5 lakh rooftop solar installations in Odisha, even as Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, outlined the state’s long-term clean energy goals.
Power ministers from Delhi and Rajasthan were also present. The event was organised in partnership with the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change and IIT Kanpur. The two-day summit includes discussions on grid security, climate risk, carbon markets, nuclear innovation, and AI-enabled energy systems.