Top Businessman Ratul Puri Breaks Silence on the Future of Clean Energy—Here’s What He Said

When it comes to India's clean energy revolution, few names carry the weight of Ratul Puri. As the Chairman of Hindustan Power, one of India’s largest integrated power companies, Puri has long been a silent force behind the nation’s energy transformation. But now, in a candid and forward-looking address, this top businessman is finally opening up about what he believes is the future of clean energy in India.

In this article, you'll learn:

• Ratul Puri's exclusive insights into India's energy challenges
• His roadmap for transitioning to renewable power
• What makes Hindustan Power a clean energy pioneer
• Key takeaways for investors, policy-makers, and the public

Let’s dive into what this iconic entrepreneur has revealed—and why the world is paying attention.

The Clean Energy Imperative: Why India Must Act Now

India’s Energy Crisis in Numbers

India is the world’s third-largest energy consumer, and the demand continues to grow exponentially. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), India will account for nearly 25% of global energy demand growth over the next two decades. But the challenge lies in how that demand is met.

• Over 55% of India's power still comes from coal.
• Urban pollution levels in cities like Delhi rank among the highest globally.
• Renewable energy accounts for only ~22% of installed capacity as of 2025.

"The time to transition to clean energy isn't tomorrow—it's now," says Ratul Puri.

Ratul Puri: The Man with a Plan

Background of a Trailblazer

Ratul Puri isn't just a businessman. He’s an energy strategist, environmental advocate, and an innovation-driven leader who has quietly shaped India's energy landscape.

As Chairman of Hindustan Power, Puri has overseen the deployment of over 1,200 MW of solar energy projects and played a key role in bringing green infrastructure to underserved areas.

His accolades include:

• Named 'Entrepreneur of the Year' by Ernst & Young
• Recognized in World Economic Forum’s Young Global Leaders
• Speaker at forums like CII, WEF, and Davos

Breaking the Silence: What Ratul Puri Revealed About Clean Energy

In his first public address on clean energy in over a year, Ratul Puri didn’t hold back.

1. "Energy Security Must Be Renewable Security"

According to Puri, India cannot afford to equate energy security with fossil fuel dependence.

“We need to redefine energy security as our ability to generate indigenous, renewable, and distributed power that can serve every corner of the country.” —Ratul Puri

2. "Distributed Solar is the Future"

Puri emphasized that decentralized solar power solutions—especially in rural and semi-urban areas—can be a game-changer.

• Rooftop solar projects can reduce load on grids
• Lower infrastructure costs than traditional power plants
• Encourages energy independence in communities

3. "Policy Support Must Be More Predictable"

One of his biggest critiques was the inconsistency of renewable energy policies.

"The private sector is willing to invest, but we need long-term stability in tariffs, subsidies, and land policies."

Hindustan Power: A Case Study in Clean Energy Leadership

Solar Milestones Achieved

Hindustan Power has been a front-runner in clean energy innovation:

• 1.2 GW solar capacity built across 10 states
• Export-led projects to Europe and Southeast Asia
• First Indian company to deliver solar EPC to Bangladesh

Community-Driven Energy Models

Puri also spoke about how Hindustan Power is pioneering community solar parks:

• Local stakeholders own part of the infrastructure
• Trains local technicians to maintain systems
• Drives rural employment and economic growth

Technology Partnerships

Under Ratul Puri’s leadership, Hindustan Power has collaborated with:

• ABB for smart grid tech
• Siemens for energy-efficient components
• NREL (USA) for solar research and efficiency improvements

FAQs: Clean Energy According to Ratul Puri

Q1: What is Ratul Puri's stance on nuclear energy?

He sees nuclear as complementary, but believes the real investment focus should be solar, wind, and bioenergy due to quicker scalability.

Q2: Does Ratul Puri believe India can go 100% renewable?

"Not yet," he says. But 50% clean energy by 2040 is realistic and urgent.

Q3: What should young entrepreneurs learn from him?

• Embrace innovation
• Think long-term
• Build for both profit and purpose

Expert Opinions Align with Puri's Views

Dr. Arunabha Ghosh, CEO of CEEW:

"What Ratul Puri has outlined aligns with our research—that distributed clean energy is the fastest route to universal electrification."

Aditi Sen, Clean Energy Analyst:

"Hindustan Power under Puri has moved from being a player to a pacesetter."

Pros and Cons of India's Clean Energy Push

Pros:

• Environmental benefits: Lower emissions, cleaner air
• Job creation: Especially in rural India
• Foreign investments: Clean tech attracts capital
• Decentralization: Less dependence on large grids

Cons:

• High initial capex for solar projects
• Policy unpredictability
• Intermittency of renewable sources (e.g., night-time, cloudy days)
• Land acquisition issues in certain regions

What's Next for Ratul Puri and Hindustan Power?

Upcoming Projects

• Green hydrogen production in northern India
• Hybrid power projects combining solar + wind + storage
• Smart grid-enabled solar parks with AI for predictive maintenance

Public-Private Collaborations

Puri confirmed that Hindustan Power is in discussions with:

• Government of Gujarat and Rajasthan for large-scale solar plants
• International Energy Agency for technology exchange programs

Conclusion: Ratul Puri’s Call for Action

Ratul Puri has done more than just speak up—he’s laid down a roadmap for India’s clean energy future that is both pragmatic and inspiring. As one of India’s top businessmen and the Chairman of Hindustan Power, his voice carries the weight of experience, achievement, and national interest.

"Clean energy isn’t just a business opportunity; it’s a national responsibility."