Odisha Approves ₹1.46 Lakh Crore Projects to Lead India’s Transition from Coal Power to Green Hydrogen and Renewable Energy – EQ
In Short : The Odisha government has approved energy and industrial projects worth ₹1.46 lakh crore, marking a major shift from coal-based power to green hydrogen and renewable energy. The 33 cleared projects span steel, chemicals, and clean energy, expected to create over 66,000 jobs. This move strengthens Odisha’s role in India’s sustainable industrial transformation and green growth agenda.
In Detail : The Odisha government has taken a decisive step toward a greener industrial future by approving projects worth ₹1.46 lakh crore, signaling a transformative shift from traditional coal-based industries to green hydrogen and renewable energy. The decision underscores the state’s ambition to become a major player in India’s clean energy revolution while maintaining its strong industrial foundation.
A total of 33 projects have been approved across multiple sectors, including steel, chemicals, energy, and green hydrogen. These ventures are expected to generate more than 66,000 employment opportunities, offering both direct and indirect jobs to local communities. The initiatives also align with Odisha’s long-term strategy to attract sustainable investments and boost regional development.
Among the approved projects, several are focused on renewable power generation and green hydrogen production—technologies that are expected to redefine the state’s energy landscape. These include proposals from leading industrial groups to establish integrated clean energy facilities that will produce green hydrogen for use in manufacturing and transport.
Odisha, traditionally known for its coal and mineral-based industries, is now strategically diversifying its industrial portfolio. By encouraging low-carbon technologies, the government aims to ensure economic growth without compromising environmental integrity. This marks a significant policy transition from dependency on fossil fuels toward more sustainable, future-ready energy systems.
Officials highlighted that many of the proposed projects will incorporate modern sustainability frameworks such as carbon capture, waste-to-energy systems, and water recycling. These innovations will help industries operate efficiently while minimizing environmental impact, setting new benchmarks for responsible industrialization in India’s eastern region.
The projects span multiple districts, ensuring equitable industrial growth across the state. Locations such as Angul, Jharsuguda, and Dhenkanal will host large-scale renewable and hydrogen plants, while coastal regions will see investments in green ammonia and clean fuel production. This geographic distribution aims to balance infrastructure development and resource utilization.
The green hydrogen initiatives, in particular, are being hailed as a game-changer for Odisha. By leveraging its strong industrial base and access to ports, the state is positioning itself as a potential export hub for green fuels in the future. This will not only reduce emissions but also create a new stream of revenue and trade opportunities.
The government’s proactive industrial policies, coupled with an investor-friendly regulatory framework, have played a crucial role in attracting large-scale private investments. The Industrial Promotion and Investment Corporation of Odisha (IPICOL) continues to act as a single-window facilitator for project approvals, ensuring faster execution and investor confidence.
With these new projects, Odisha is moving beyond its coal-dependent past toward a sustainable, innovation-driven energy future. The state’s commitment to green growth will not only help India achieve its net-zero targets but also inspire other industrial regions to adopt similar strategies that balance economic progress with environmental responsibility.
