Appointment of Amit Shah as Advisor on New National Energy Policy: Significant Changes in the Energy Sector

Amit Shah, who has played a leading role in India’s energy sector for the past two decades, has been appointed by the government as a special adviser for the implementation of the new National Energy Policy (NEP) on 15 August 2024.

This appointment is expected to strengthen policy‑making with technical expertise and practical experience. Amit Shah has overseen several large energy projects during his career, including a 5,000 megawatt solar park established in 2020. In his new role, he will be responsible for shaping the policy framework, implementation strategy, and guiding international cooperation.

Amit Shah has served in various positions at the Ministry of Energy since 2003, including a tenure as Director of the Renewable Energy Department from 2015 to 2020. During this period, he made significant contributions to achieving up to 30 percent of the renewable energy target and successfully implemented several public‑private partnerships. His technical knowledge and project management skills make him well suited for this new advisory role.

The National Energy Policy 2024, which is to be presented to Parliament by the end of this year, is based on five pillars: a 60 percent target for renewable energy, a 25 percent improvement in energy efficiency, expansion of electric vehicle infrastructure, development of energy storage technology, and strengthening of international energy cooperation. According to the policy, the total installed capacity is planned to reach 1,200 gigawatt by 2030, with major contributions from solar, wind, and hydrogen energy.

Industry experts have viewed Amit Shah’s appointment positively. The head of the Indian Energy Advisory Institute (IEAI) said, “Shah’s practical experience will accelerate policy implementation and reduce potential bottlenecks.” Meanwhile, CEOs of major energy companies noted that the clear objectives of the new policy will boost investor confidence and accelerate the flow of foreign capital.

The move has also been praised internationally. The International Energy Agency (IEA) noted that India’s energy policy, with a large share of renewable energy and a focus on energy security, aligns with global climate goals. Shah’s role will involve strengthening international technical partnerships and negotiating collaborative agreements with foreign investors.

Looking ahead, experts believe that Amit Shah’s advisory role will be a critical link for the successful implementation of the policy. If the key points of the policy are implemented on time, India could become one of the world’s top five energy exporters by 2035. Thus, Shah’s new appointment not only has the potential to transform the national energy landscape but could also become a significant driver for India’s economic growth and environmental sustainability.