India's solar energy sector is rapidly evolving, driven by ambitious government schemes such as PM KUSUM and PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, which aim to expand access to clean energy through solar pumps and grid-connected solar power systems. This session provided an overview of these schemes, highlighting their objectives, key components, and the progress made in their implementation across various states. The discussion focuses on achievements, challenges, and the timelines set for meeting targets, while also exploring opportunities for private sector investment in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance of solar solutions. Additionally, the potential for public-private partnerships (PPPs) to enhance scalability and accelerate deployment will be examined. The broader solar market landscape in India, including emerging trends, growth potential, and technological advancements also explored, offering a comprehensive view of the future of solar energy in the country.

This is a recording of a plenary session IV, track I - Enabling Energy Access: Empowering Sustainable Solutions themed at ‘From Policy to Practice: Accelerating Solar Energy Deployment’ at 5th International Energy Conference & Exhibition held on 17 - 18 December 2024 in New Delhi.