Jharkhand: Powering India, Lagging on Clean Energy

This opinion article examines Jharkhand’s energy landscape through the framework of Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7): Affordable and Clean Energy. Jharkhand is a major contributor to India’s coal-based energy economy, while its renewable-energy transition remains comparatively limited. The article explores the gap between the state’s substantial renewable-energy potential and its current level of deployment, with particular attention to solar, wind and hydropower. It also discusses Jharkhand’s renewable-energy targets, the importance of transparent monitoring of progress, and the need to integrate renewable-energy commitments into future energy planning. The article argues that Jharkhand’s energy transition should be viewed not merely as an environmental imperative but also in relation to public health, energy security, livelihoods, sustainable development and intergenerational equity. The discussion contributes to wider conversations on how resource-rich, coal-producing regions can navigate the transition towards a more sustainable and diversified energy future.