India's AI Boom Fuels Power Demand Surge

The rapid expansion of data centres and artificial intelligence workloads is driving a substantial increase in electricity demand across India. N Venu, Hitachi Energy's Managing Director and CEO for India and South Asia, highlighted that these data centres function as major power consumers, directly translating high computing loads into greater energy requirements. He emphasized the critical need for developing strong local supply chains to sustain this escalating demand.

Hitachi Energy is actively responding to these future infrastructure needs by expanding its manufacturing and operational presence in India. The company has allocated an investment of ₹2,000 crore over the next three to four years to augment its production capacities. Furthermore, the company has proactively met its 2030 sustainability targets by securing renewable power for all its factories and project offices, accomplishing this milestone earlier than anticipated.

Venu also pointed out the necessity for long-term strategic planning beyond project-based approaches, urging utilities and policymakers to adopt a programme-based framework. This long-term vision is essential for companies to confidently plan their investments and capacity expansions. The growth in renewable energy and data centres in India presents significant opportunities, aligning with the 'Make in India' initiative by fostering investment in talent, technology, and local manufacturing capabilities.