Dr. Arunabha Ghosh
Founder & CEO, CEEW
Alumnus of: St. Stephen’s College & University of Oxford
Dr. Arunabha Ghosh is a renowned public policy expert, author, and the Founder & CEO of the Council on Energy, Environment, and Water (CEEW), a leading policy research institution in Asia. His educational background includes an economics degree from St. Stephen’s College, University of Delhi, and a master’s and doctorate in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics from Balliol College, University of Oxford. As a Clarendon Scholar and Marvin Bower Scholar, Ghosh’s academic foundation laid the groundwork for his influential work in the solar energy and climate policy sectors. Dr. Ghosh has worked in over 45 countries, which likely exposed him to diverse energy challenges and solutions, including the potential of solar energy in various contexts.
☀️ Key Solar Contributions
- Founder & CEO, Council on Energy, Environment, and Water (CEEW)
Established CEEW in 2010 to promote solar energy policies, research, and actionable solutions for sustainable development in Asia. - Creator of the International Solar Alliance (ISA)
Dr. Ghosh was instrumental in conceptualizing and establishing ISA, a global initiative designed to bring together 121 countries to drive solar energy adoption and reduce financial risks globally. - Promoting Decentralized Renewable Energy (DRE)
Advocates for decentralized renewable energy solutions, particularly solar power, to improve energy access in rural and underserved communities, and to address both climate change and energy poverty. - Global Policy Expertise
Dr. Ghosh has advised governments, industries, and international organizations on solar energy and climate change policies, positioning him as a thought leader in energy transition. - Leadership of CEEW as a Premier Policy Research Institution
Under his leadership, CEEW has become a leading institution in Asia, influencing solar energy policies globally and contributing to India’s push for a more sustainable energy future.
Awards & Recognitions
- Asia Game Changer Award (2022): For shaping global renewable energy policies and driving action in solar energy.
- World Economic Forum Young Global Leader: Recognized for his leadership in sustainable energy solutions and global policy influence.
- International Advisory Roles: Serves on UN Committee for Development Policy, Global Commission on the Economics of Water, and others.
- Thought Leadership and Media Engagement: Authored Nature’s 2015 Top 10 Essay; monthly columnist in Business Standard; featured in energy and water documentaries.
Inspiration and Motivation for Solar Energy
“Growing up in Delhi’s smog, I saw how energy poverty and pollution trapped families. Solar isn’t just electrons—it’s emancipation.”
Dr. Ghosh’s early experiences in Delhi shaped his passion for clean energy. He believes solar power can liberate underserved communities from energy poverty and environmental hazards.
Thoughts on India’s Solar Future
Dr. Ghosh believes that solar energy is essential to India’s low-carbon, sustainable growth trajectory. He advocates for decentralized renewable energy (DRE) as a solution to energy access and climate risks. As India works toward ambitious solar capacity goals, solar energy will be central to development and emissions reduction.
“Solar isn’t just electrons—it’s emancipation.”
— Dr. Arunabha Ghosh
✅ Key Takeaways
- Global Leadership: Architect of ISA and CLEAN, driving international cooperation on solar energy.
- Policy Expertise: Strategic advisor to governments and global organizations on climate and energy policy.
- Institution Building: Developed CEEW into a premier policy think tank in Asia.
Conclusion
Dr. Arunabha Ghosh’s journey showcases how visionary leadership and policy innovation can advance solar energy worldwide. His work at CEEW and with ISA has positioned solar power as a cornerstone of sustainable development and climate action. As nations embrace clean energy, Dr. Ghosh continues to inspire and guide the future of global solar policy.