Suparjya Swain 
BHUBANESWAR: In the evolving landscape of renewable energy, few names resonate with as much impact and innovation as Kamlesh Kumar Singh, the visionary founder of Surya Group. Established in 2009, Surya Group began with a modest investment and an audacious dream: to revolutionize the renewable energy sector in India. Under Singh’s leadership, the company has blossomed into a formidable player in the industry, shaping the future of sustainable energy.
In this exclusive interview, Singh reflects on his entrepreneurial journey, the inspirations behind his work, and his ambitious vision for the future.
Mr. Singh, can you take us back to the early days of Surya Group? What motivated you to start this journey, and what were the initial challenges you faced?
The story of Surya Group begins with a simple yet profound belief: that renewable energy could not only power homes but also change lives. Back in 2009, after spending years in the corporate world, I found myself increasingly drawn to the idea of sustainability. With just ₹1.5 lakh in hand, I decided to take the leap into the solar energy sector, fully aware of the immense challenges ahead. The early days were anything but easy—limited resources, a market that was still in its infancy, and the daunting task of building a reputation from scratch. But each challenge was a lesson, each setback a stepping stone. Through unwavering focus on quality and an unshakeable belief in our mission, we gradually carved out a niche for ourselves. Today, as I look back, I see not just the struggles but the seeds of growth that have brought us to a net worth of over ₹150 crores, with a significant impact across various sectors.
How did your upbringing influence your entrepreneurial spirit and your approach to business?
My journey began far from Berhampur, in a place where the challenges of daily life taught me the values of perseverance, hard work, and community. Growing up, I was always fascinated by stories of innovation and resilience, which ignited a spark in me to create something meaningful. These formative years instilled in me a deep understanding of the importance of staying grounded, of never losing sight of the human element in business. This has influenced my approach at Surya Group, where we place a strong emphasis on ethical practices, long-term goals, and creating a positive impact not just for our clients, but for society as a whole. My upbringing taught me that success is not just about financial growth, but about leaving a legacy that touches lives and drives change.
What is your vision for Surya Group over the next decade? How do you see the group contributing to global sustainability efforts?
As I envision the next decade for Surya Group, I see a horizon filled with possibilities—where we are not just participants in the renewable energy sector but pioneers leading the charge towards a sustainable future. Our goal is to expand our solar power capacity to 500 MW and continue pushing the boundaries of innovation in energy storage and water solutions. But beyond growth, our true contribution lies in the impact we make on the world around us. We are committed to integrating the latest technology to reduce our carbon footprint and help others do the same. We have recently started working towards green hydrogen and green ammonia and fortunate enough to revive 2 orders and the third one is in the pipeline. We also got technology for green hydrogen electrolyser from BARC Mumbai.
How is the Odisha Government empowering Solar projects in recent days?
The Odisha Government has become a crucial ally in our mission to harness the power of the sun. Their support for solar projects has been transformative, creating a fertile ground for innovation and expansion. Initiatives like the PM Kusum Scheme and the Odisha Renewable Energy Development Agency (OREDA) have provided us with the necessary frameworks to scale up solar energy. Whether through financial subsidies, streamlined project approvals, or strategic partnerships, the government’s proactive approach has enabled us to bring solar power to even the most remote areas.
What is your vision for Odisha?
When I think about Odisha, I see a state poised on the brink of extraordinary transformation. My vision is for Odisha to become a beacon of sustainable development, where renewable energy and advanced technology drive not only economic growth but also societal progress. I dream of a state where every village has access to clean energy and water, where the workforce is skilled in the latest innovations, and where the economy thrives on the principles of sustainability and inclusivity. At Group Surya, we are deeply committed to playing a pivotal role in this transformation, ensuring that our projects and initiatives align with the broader vision of a prosperous, green Odisha.
Your journey is truly inspiring. What legacy do you hope to leave behind, both personally and through Surya Group?
The legacy I hope to leave is one of resilience, innovation, and lasting impact. Personally, I want to be remembered as someone who believed in the power of ideas and the strength of community. I want my journey to inspire others to dream big and to never give up, no matter the obstacles. Through Surya Group, I hope to create a legacy that goes beyond financial success. I want our work in renewable energy and water solutions to stand as a testament to what can be achieved when we combine passion with purpose. My dream is for Surya Group to be synonymous with sustainability and social good, a company that future generations look up to as a model of what’s possible when business and ethics go hand in hand.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who want to build businesses that are both successful and sustainable?
To those aspiring to make their mark in the world of business, my advice is to stay true to your vision and never lose sight of your values. Building a successful business requires more than just a good idea; it requires perseverance, adaptability, and a deep commitment to creating value that extends beyond profit. Sustainability should be woven into the very fabric of your business model, not just as a goal, but as a guiding principle. The road will be challenging, and there will be times when you may doubt your path. But remember, it is in these moments of adversity that true entrepreneurs are forged. Keep pushing forward, stay committed to your ideals, and always be open to learning and evolving. Success will follow.
Kamlesh Kumar Singh’s journey is a testament to the power of vision, resilience, and ethical entrepreneurship. As Surya Group continues to lead in the renewable energy sector, Singh’s legacy of innovation and sustainability will undoubtedly inspire future generations of entrepreneurs to blend ambition with purpose.
