Melbourne played host to the ‘Victoria – India Clean Energy Roundtable’, a gathering that brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers to explore opportunities in the clean energy sector. Organised by the Australia India Institute, the Victorian Government, and the Smart Energy Council, the event focused on trade, investment, research, innovation, manufacturing, and skill development between the two regions.
Discussions centred on how Victoria and India could leverage each other’s expertise to drive the transition to renewable energy. Participants emphasised the need for stronger ties in green technology and policy collaboration, recognising that both regions share ambitions for sustainable energy and economic growth.
Premier Jacinta Allan has previously pointed to Victoria’s commitment to renewable energy and its deepening ties with India. During a keynote speech in New Delhi, she highlighted the state’s focus on transport, housing, and renewables as key pillars of economic growth. She also noted that around 60 people from India migrate to Victoria every day, strengthening cultural and economic links.
The Smart Energy Council, a major organiser of the event, has been vocal in advocating for progressive energy policies and industry-led initiatives. With the backing of the Victorian Government, the council has played a role in shaping national clean energy strategies, pushing for faster adoption of renewables and smarter energy infrastructure.
Victoria’s approach to clean energy has been anchored in its plans to revive the State Electricity Commission (SEC). The government’s strategy involves direct investments in renewable energy and storage projects, with an eye on hitting a 95% renewable energy target by 2035 and achieving net zero emissions by 2045. A 51% public stake in these projects is expected to ensure greater accountability and long-term benefits for residents.
India has been making rapid advances in clean energy, aiming to ramp up renewable capacity while seeking international partnerships to accelerate its transition. The country’s collaboration with Victoria presents an opportunity to exchange technology, scale up green manufacturing, and drive innovation in energy storage and distribution.
A major theme at the roundtable was the role of joint research and development. By working together, Victoria and India can advance breakthroughs in solar and wind energy, smart grids, and battery technology. Manufacturing was also a key point of discussion, with both sides keen to boost production capabilities and generate employment in the sector.
The clean energy industry requires a skilled workforce, and both Victoria and India see training and development as critical to ensuring a smooth transition. By aligning skill-building initiatives, the two regions aim to equip workers with the expertise needed for an expanding renewable energy market.
The roundtable reinforced the importance of international cooperation in tackling global energy challenges. As climate change continues to push governments toward greener solutions, partnerships like this serve as an example of how economic interests and sustainability goals can align.
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