Kochi: The Global Hydrogen & Renewable Energy Summit 2025, held on March 12–13, 2025 in Kochi, Kerala, brought together policymakers, diplomats, industry leaders, researchers, and clean energy experts to discuss global energy transition strategies and emerging opportunities in renewable energy. During the summit, Sanjiva De Silva, Counsellor – Energy, Australian High Commission, New Delhi, highlighted the growing strategic partnership between Australia and India in renewable energy, green hydrogen, and workforce development.
Addressing the gathering, De Silva emphasized that the India-Australia relationship has evolved into a comprehensive partnership driven by shared economic, technological, and sustainability goals. He noted that both countries are uniquely positioned to work together in accelerating clean energy adoption and supporting the global transition towards low-carbon economies.
Australia-India Renewable Energy Partnership Gains Momentum
Speaking about bilateral cooperation, De Silva highlighted the significance of the Australia-India Renewable Energy Partnership, launched by the leaders of both countries to strengthen collaboration in clean energy technologies, skills development, and innovation.
The partnership aims to foster greater cooperation across critical areas including solar energy, green hydrogen, advanced manufacturing, and renewable energy infrastructure. According to him, the initiative reflects a shared commitment to building resilient and sustainable energy systems while creating economic opportunities for both nations.
Building a Skilled Workforce for the Energy Transition
A major focus of the collaboration is workforce development. De Silva noted that India’s ambitious renewable energy targets will require a large pool of skilled professionals capable of supporting project deployment, operations, and maintenance.
To address this need, Australia is working with Indian institutions and industry partners to develop training programmes focused on renewable energy technologies, particularly in the solar sector. These initiatives aim to create internationally recognised skill frameworks that can support workforce mobility and strengthen the clean energy talent ecosystem.
Partnerships involving academic institutions, vocational training organisations, and industry stakeholders are expected to play a crucial role in preparing the next generation of renewable energy professionals.
Advancing Innovation in Green Hydrogen
The discussions also highlighted growing cooperation in green hydrogen technologies. De Silva emphasised that both Australia and India see hydrogen as a critical component of future energy systems and are exploring opportunities for collaboration across the hydrogen value chain.
Areas of interest include hydrogen production technologies, electrolysers, storage solutions, transportation infrastructure, and industrial applications. The two countries are also examining opportunities to connect Australian research capabilities with India’s expanding manufacturing ecosystem to accelerate innovation and commercial deployment.
Opportunities in Green Industrial Development
Beyond renewable energy generation, De Silva highlighted emerging opportunities in sectors such as green chemicals, green fuels, and low-carbon industrial production. Collaborative efforts are exploring pathways for developing sustainable supply chains that can support future industries while contributing to climate goals.
The potential for cooperation in areas such as green steel and advanced materials was also discussed, reflecting the broader scope of the Australia-India clean energy partnership.
Collaboration Key to a Sustainable Future
De Silva stressed that addressing global energy and climate challenges requires strong partnerships among governments, industry, research institutions, and educational organisations. International cooperation can accelerate innovation, facilitate technology transfer, and create scalable solutions capable of supporting sustainable development.
The summit served as a platform for exchanging ideas on renewable energy, hydrogen technologies, investment opportunities, and policy frameworks aimed at accelerating the global energy transition.
Participants agreed that deeper collaboration between Australia and India can contribute significantly to advancing clean energy technologies while strengthening economic ties and supporting long-term sustainability objectives.
The event reinforced the importance of international partnerships in shaping the future of renewable energy and highlighted the growing role of Australia and India in driving innovation-led energy transformation.