Transitioning from Coal to Renewable Energy in Maharashtra: Pathways to Sustainable Development

Maharashtra, one of the most industrially advanced states in India, struggles with both increasing demand for energy and associated environmental challenges due to high dependence on coal and conventional thermal power plants. This paper explores the energy perspective in Maharashtra with a focus on coal-to-renewable transitions for sustainable development. Existing literature pinpoints the present energy mix, potential of solar, wind, and biomass deployment, socio-economic impacts of renewable energy adoption, and policy framework promoting this transition. The paper finds that while several barriers—high financial constraints, integration challenges of grids, and infrastructural gaps—still occur, strategic investments, community engagement, and solutions at a microgrid level could help a transition toward a more sustainable energy future. This paper highlights that renewable energy will play a critical role in achieving a balance among economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social development in Maharashtra.