Smita Mishra 
FEATURE: In a world where sustainability and environmental conservation have become the need of the hour, one man’s vision and perseverance have made a significant impact. Meet Mr. Prashant Panigrahi, a pioneer in renewable energy and a champion of sustainability. His remarkable journey, spanning over three decades, is a testament to the power of innovation, teamwork, and determination.
A big dream by a young technocrat, visualized 32 years back in 1993, with a promise to save Mother Earth by using non-polluting green energy. Mr. Panigrahi’s inspiration came from his father, Sri G.H. Panigrahi, who encouraged him to enter the renewable energy market. With his father’s guidance and support, and also his brother and family who supported him at every step of crisis and challenges, Mr. Panigrahi started Gayatri Solar at Bhubaneswar with a small office setup.
Gayatri Solar’s journey began in 1993, when the concept of solar energy was still in its infancy. Mr. Panigrahi, a technocrat with an industrial electronics background, had a vision to make solar energy a reality in Odisha. Despite the challenges and skepticism he faced, he persevered and worked tirelessly to promote the benefits of solar energy.
Today, Gayatri Solar is a leading player in the renewable energy sector, with a cumulative installation of 27.4 megawatts. The company has been at the forefront of the solar revolution in Odisha, and its projects have made a significant impact on the lives of people in the state.
One of Gayatri Solar’s notable projects was the solar electrification of 700 remote rural villages in Odisha. This project not only brought light to rural areas but also demonstrated the potential of solar energy in the state. Gayatri Solar also implemented the first LED solar traffic signals in association with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a Navaratna PSU.
Mr. Panigrahi’s commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation has earned him numerous awards and recognition. He has received the Green Energy Support Award from the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) three times consecutively.
Throughout his journey, Mr. Panigrahi has faced numerous challenges, including the lack of resources, skilled manpower, and support from the banking system. However, he never lost sight of his vision and continued to work towards his goal of making Odisha a hub for solar energy.
When asked about the challenges faced by young startups in the industry sector, Mr. Panigrahi shared his insights. “Initial blocked investment, cash flow of the company, never being in a comfort zone, and consistent hard work are the key challenges faced by startups.” He also emphasized the importance of perseverance and adaptability in the face of challenges.
Mr. Panigrahi’s leadership and vision have not only inspired his team but also the entire renewable energy industry of Odisha and many other states. His commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation has set a benchmark for others to follow, with the main mantra of his success being “teamwork.”
As we conclude our conversation with Mr. Panigrahi, it is clear that his legacy extends far beyond his business achievements. He is a true pioneer and a champion of renewable energy, and his work will continue to inspire generations to come.
In his own words, “Business and sustainability have another whole lot of aspects in itself. As we want to do sustainable development for society and the environment, similarly, a business should be sustainable in its own niche.”
Mr. Prashant Panigrahi’s story is a testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and teamwork. As we look to the future, we can draw inspiration from his remarkable journey and strive to make a positive impact on our world.
