India has set ambitious climate targets, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2070 and sourcing 50% of its energy from renewables by 2030. However, achieving these goals presents a significant challenge—the renewable energy sector is facing a critical shortage of skilled professionals.
This gap exists across multiple levels, from mid-management executives to on-ground technicians, highlighting the urgent need for a comprehensive education framework. Leading institutions such as IITs and IIMs must integrate renewable energy as a core discipline to equip students with the expertise required to drive the sector forward.
Bridging the Execution Gap in Renewable Energy
Despite India’s ambitious target of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, the sector lacks sufficient execution capabilities.
Industry estimates suggest that by 2030, the solar energy sector alone could generate 2-3 million jobs. However, the challenge lies in finding candidates with the necessary technical knowledge and managerial expertise. According to Rakesh Kalsi, Managing Director of Infrastructure Solutions at TruBoard Partners, the renewable energy industry urgently needs skilled professionals to fill key roles.
Expanding Academic Pathways for Renewable Energy
To support the growth of India’s renewable energy sector, both government and private institutions must develop specialized courses covering the entire value chain.
Currently, only a handful of Indian institutions offer dedicated programs in renewable energy. Examples include:
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UPES Dehradun: BTech and MBA programs in renewable energy
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National Power Training Institute (NPTI): Courses in solar and renewable energy
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NTPC School of Business: Specialization in renewable energy project placements
However, these offerings remain insufficient to meet industry demand. Specialized academic programs that incorporate technical training, managerial skills, and policy expertise—supported by advanced research facilities—can help bridge this gap. For instance, Jamia Millia Islamia’s BVoc in Solar Energy program prepares students for roles in manufacturing and design, leading to promising placements in renewable energy firms.
Unlocking India’s Green Jobs Potential
According to government reports, India could create 35 million green jobs by 2047. However, most current training programs focus primarily on blue-collar roles, such as solar panel installation and maintenance.
To support the industry’s long-term needs, educational institutions must expand their focus to include project management, system design, and consulting, ensuring a skilled workforce at both mid- and senior-management levels.
Tackling the Gender Gap in Renewable Energy
A report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) reveals that while women make up 32% of the global clean energy workforce, this number drops to just 11% in India.
This gender disparity further exacerbates the skills shortage, emphasizing the need for inclusive policies that encourage more women to enter the renewable energy sector.
Government and Private Sector Initiatives
Programs such as the Surya Mitra Skill Development Programme and the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana are working to train technicians and foster entrepreneurship in rural areas.
However, these efforts need to be complemented by broader academic programs, industry-led training initiatives, and substantial private sector investment in upskilling professionals.
Renewable Energy: A Career Path Yet to Gain Traction
Despite its potential, renewable energy has not yet captured the interest of students as a mainstream career choice. Fewer than 10% of IIT and IIM graduates pursue careers in the energy sector, as industries like IT, AI, and fintech continue to dominate student preferences.
The Road Ahead: Strengthening Renewable Energy Education
To close the talent gap and ensure sustainable industry growth, India must adopt the following strategies:
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Integrate Renewable Energy into Core Curricula – IITs and IIMs must introduce specialized courses focusing on renewable energy, sustainability, and energy security.
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Promote Gender Diversity – Encouraging women’s participation in the sector can help address workforce shortages and enhance innovation.
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Invest in State-of-the-Art Labs and Facilities – Advanced research centers and practical training environments can attract top talent.
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Strengthen Public-Private Collaboration – Partnerships between academic institutions, industry leaders, and government agencies are crucial for workforce development.
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Increase Awareness and Career Guidance – Renewable energy must be positioned as a high-impact, future-proof career option, akin to fields like IT and AI.
A Sustainable Future Needs a Skilled Workforce
While India’s renewable energy targets are ambitious, achieving them will require a well-trained, diverse, and highly skilled workforce. Institutions like IITs and IIMs have a crucial role to play in shaping the future of clean energy by not just producing engineers, but also leaders capable of driving India’s energy transition.
With the right educational and policy interventions, renewable energy can become a cornerstone of India’s economic and environmental progress, ensuring a greener and more sustainable future.
