India is making notable strides in advancing its renewable energy sector through the introduction of the Renewable Consumption Obligation (RCO) mechanism. This draft policy, developed by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) under the Ministry of Power, requires designated consumers, including distribution licensees, open access consumers, and captive power plants, to use a minimum share of electricity from non-fossil sources. The RCO is part of India’s broader plan to reach 500 GW of non-fossil energy capacity by 2030, aligning with the country’s “Panchamrit” goals for sustainable energy growth.

The RCO framework builds on the earlier Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) system but expands its scope and introduces new targets. It sets specific sub-targets for various types of renewable energy, including wind, hydro, and distributed renewable energy (DRE). Wind and hydro compliance, for instance, must come from projects commissioned after March 31, 2024. The obligations under RCO are also flexible. Surplus consumption in one category, like solar or wind, can offset shortfalls in another, giving designated consumers the flexibility to meet their overall renewable energy targets.

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