Author: Rouni Sharma
Abstract: The transition towards renewable energy has emerged as an important pathway for addressing energy security, climate change and sustainable rural development. In this context, large-scale solar-energy projects have the potential to transform rural economies through employment generation, infrastructure development, livelihood diversification and increased economic opportunities. This chapter examines the emerging research trends in renewable energy and rural development with particular reference to the Bhadla Solar Park in Rajasthan, one of India’s prominent solar-energy development regions. The chapter explores the socio-economic and environmental dimensions of solar-park development, including employment opportunities, local economic activities, land-use changes, infrastructure improvement and livelihood implications. It also highlights emerging research areas such as energy justice, community participation, agrivoltaics, digital technologies, artificial intelligence, energy storage and the circular economy. The study argues that the developmental benefits of large-scale renewable-energy projects depend on inclusive planning, equitable benefit sharing, environmental safeguards and meaningful participation of local communities. Bhadla provides an important case for understanding how renewable-energy expansion can be integrated with sustainable and inclusive rural development.
