Renewable Energy (RE) transition is not just important from the perspective of climate change mitigation but is also significant in terms of advancing economic growth and providing energy security and accessibility for a global population. With mounting international pressure to decarbonize economies and achieve clean energy targets, the renewable energy sector has observed rapid growth over the past two decades. Although there's a lot of buzz around the renewable energy transition, it is critical to note that the so-called “green energy” projects have significant environmental and social repercussions. Empirical research on large-scale renewable energy projects indicates evidence of exploitation and commodification of critical ecosystems and resources, having severe consequences for the rural and marginalised communities dependent on it.

In this context, the internship study undertakes a comprehensive analysis of the development of large-scale solar projects in India, focusing on the proposed 13-gigawatt project in Changthang. It attempts to unpack broader state (and non-state) narratives surrounding the development of the solar project. Furthermore, it documents the local perceptions and examines the potential impacts of the proposed solar project on the lives and livelihoods of Changpas. The study highlights the perception of a diverse range of stakeholders involved at different stages of the development of the solar project and tries to problematise the idea of “a monolith State” Vs the “powerless” Changpas. It also examines and questions the dominant rhetoric of “development for the greater good” by looking closely at the local context and the nuances surrounding the development of the solar project in Changthang. Through its preliminary investigation, the study seeks to address challenges in transitioning to renewable energy while safeguarding the rights and practices of the pastoralist communities.

Initial findings suggest large areas of grazing pastures and migration routes used by Changpas of Samad being affected by the proposed renewable energy project in Changthang. Discussions with key stakeholders exhibit a mixed response, where some are showing concerns while others are drawing attention towards the potential it promises to deliver.
Though the local Changpas seem to be sceptical, they are not strictly opposed to the idea of the solar project as long as their demands are met by the state. For others, the uncertainty of
the future remains true.