- Mr. Amit Jain, CEO & Country Manager, ENGIE India
1. Please share an overview of your company's journey and business landscape in India
ENGIE has been present in India for the past 30 years with TRACTEBEL our Engineering arm. Over the past one decade we have been at the forefront of India's energy transition focusing on developing large-scale renewable energy projects that contribute to the country’s sustainable growth. We have grown our operational capacity to over 1.1 GW of renewable energy, with a further 1.25 GW of projects under construction. Our ambition is to contribute significantly to India’s energy mix by reaching 7 GW by 2030. Our journey in India is not just about business growth but also about aligning our operations with local community development, including training programs and creating local employment opportunities on project sites. ENGIE remains dedicated to advancing clean energy solutions and fostering innovation.
2. As a business leader, how do you see the emerging opportunities and potential growth areas for your company or sector in India?
India presents a vast landscape of opportunities in the renewable energy sector, driven by ambitious government policies and the global push for decarbonization. At ENGIE, we see immense potential in solar, hybrid energy solutions, energy storage, and emerging technologies such as Green Hydrogen. These sectors will play pivotal roles in supporting India’s growing energy demands sustainably. Our focus is to continually expand in these areas, invest in new technologies, and foster strategic partnerships that help us tap into the vast potential of renewable energy across the country.
3. Looking ahead, how do you see innovation and sustainable business practices shaping your company's growth strategy?
Innovation and sustainability are central pillars of ENGIE’s growth strategy. As part of our commitment to India’s renewable energy goals, we are pioneering solutions like hybrid projects, integrating storage systems, and launching Global Energy Management and Sales (GEMS) to offer energy trading and carbon offsetting. Our sustainable business practices also extend to engaging local communities, where we emphasize inclusive growth by employing local talent and contributing to CSR initiatives such as education, tree plantations, and providing clean water. One of the notable initiatives we have undertaken at our solar sites is implementation of robotic cleaning for solar panels which has resulted in water saving of 40.80 MN litres till date for this year 2024. These initiatives not only drive business growth but also contribute to the long-term sustainability of the regions where we operate.
4. With an increasing emphasis on CSR, how do you integrate your CSR goals with your business strategy?
At ENGIE, CSR is seamlessly integrated with our business strategy based on 4 pillars - decarbonisation, education, biodiversity, and health & wellbeing. Our approach is not just about delivering energy solutions but also about empowering local communities where we operate. For instance, 80% of the workforce at our project sites are from local communities, and we actively engage in CSR activities such as skill development programs, clean water initiatives, and education support. Our Solar Module Technician training programs have trained hundreds of graduates, and through our CSR initiatives, we aim to foster sustainable development in the regions we serve, aligning our business goals with our commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
5. How has IFCCI and its business network added value to your operations in India?
The Indo-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IFCCI) has played a pivotal role in supporting ENGIE’s operations in India. Through its expansive business network, IFCCI has provided a platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and access to key stakeholders that have been instrumental in driving our projects forward. The Chamber's advocacy for policy alignment, cross-cultural exchanges, and business facilitation has enabled ENGIE to expand its footprint in India while navigating the complexities of the regulatory and business landscape. We value our partnership with IFCCI, which continues to contribute significantly to our business success in the region.
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