“Community engagement is vital for the success of renewable energy projects,” said Snigdha Kala, Deputy General Manager, Investment and Business Development at Blueleaf Energy, while speaking at the 2nd Yuva Sustainability Conference on Beyond COP 30: Empowering Youth for Climate Action, held online on 13 December 2025, highlighting India’s fast-growing clean energy transition.
At Blueleaf Energy, a renewable energy platform backed by the Macquarie Group, Kala said most wind and solar projects are developed in rural areas, where close engagement with local communities is essential for long-term success. “These are land-intensive projects,” she noted, adding that communities need a clear understanding of the technology, its impact and its benefits. Without trust and open dialogue, large-scale renewable energy infrastructure cannot succeed.
Kala described climate action as a long-term commitment rather than a short policy cycle. With visible impacts such as extreme weather events, rising pollution and climate-linked disruptions, she said the need for practical, scaled solutions is immediate. Renewable energy including wind, solar and battery storage is now commercially viable and increasingly supported by financial institutions.
She highlighted India’s recent progress in expanding renewable capacity and attracting clean energy investment, arguing that sustainability and economic growth are no longer opposing goals. Instead, the green energy transition presents new opportunities in finance, engineering, policy and project development. Effective community engagement, transparent communication and responsible development practices are essential to ensuring that local populations feel included rather than displaced by infrastructure growth.
Her address reinforced the importance of sustainability leadership, youth climate action and socially responsible energy development in shaping India’s renewable future.