BluPine Energy, a renewable energy services company established in India by global infrastructure investor Actis, has announced the completion of its skill development initiative aimed at upskilling the local youth of Gujarat in the utility-scale renewable energy sector. After an assessment by an external agency, 140 students were awarded certificates under the Skill India program of the National Skills Development Corporation of India.
The state-of-the-art skill development centres established by BluPine Energy as part of a social investment program in Gujarat trained students in the installation and operation of utility-scale renewable energy projects free of cost. These centres equipped participants with essential skills in the utility-scale renewable energy sector. The centres were located in three villages (Porana, Bhadiya, Nenava) of the Patan and Banas Kantha districts, and in two villages (Rampara, Kanakiya) of the Gir Somnath district.
BluPine Energy stated that 40% of upskilled students in these centres were women. The training was completely sponsored by BluPine Energy, and no fees were charged to the beneficiaries. This investment in social initiatives is voluntary and does not form part of BluPine’s statutory CSR investment requirement.
“The rapidly growing renewable energy sector in India has to focus on diversity, inclusion, and community empowerment as integral parts of its business impact. With over 12 GW of renewable energy capacity added last year and 200 GW more anticipated by 2030, the demand for a skilled workforce in the country is expected to increase manyfold,” said Sumit Barat, chief sustainability officer of BluPine Energy. “There is already an industry-wide supply gap for a skilled workforce in the utility-scale renewable energy sector. By equipping students with essential skills, we are helping to bridge the demand-supply gap for skilled workers in this sector and improving the quality of life in the communities we operate in.”
The six-month training imparted crucial skills in the renewable energy sector such as design, installation, operation, and maintenance of solar power systems, including solar panels, inverters, batteries, and related equipment. Participants also gained expertise in the mechanical and electrical systems of wind turbines, preparing them for various roles such as technician, project manager, consultant, and salesperson in Gujarat’s thriving solar and wind sector.
Apart from technical skills, the program also focused on soft skills and leadership training to enhance the employability of the students.
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Neerav Nanavaty, CEO of BluPine Energy, said, “This initiative is making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals from underprivileged backgrounds. The skill development centres are a testament to our belief that with the right training and support, anyone can become a valuable part of the renewable energy workforce.”
A majority of the students trained under this program underwent a two-month paid internship at a BluPine facility. This familiarized them with industry requirements and best practices. PRSD, the implementation agency appointed for upskilling the local village youth, will ensure the placement of all students upskilled under this program. They will also monitor the career progression of these students for one year and provide suitable guidance to increase employability.
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Very good gesture towards employment to women in solar photovoltaic field.