With an academic background in mechanical engineering and over 37 years of experience in the renewable energy sector, Jaspal Singh has steadily built a career rooted in innovation, sustainability and leadership. Starting his career in the manufacturing space at Hero Cycle company, he has moved through pivotal roles in the renewable sector. Singh is currently serving as the additional director at the Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA), the state nodal agency for the promotion and development of renewable energy programmes/projects and energy conservation programmes in Punjab.
“PEDA is at the forefront of driving the state’s clean energy ambitions, with a focus on the compressed biogas (CBG), solar power and mini-hydel sectors. For rooftop solar, the motivation at work comes from helping individual buildings or communities reduce their carbon footprint and cut down energy costs. Further, mini-hydel projects offer a fascinating challenge in harnessing the state’s water resources, especially when it comes to optimising low-head systems or working in off-grid areas,” Singh says.
According to Singh, CBG is more than just a renewable fuel – it is a rural empowerment tool, a circular economy enabler and a pathway to reducing dependence on fossil fuels. “A total of 58 CBG projects amounting to 832.68 tonnes per day (tpd) have been allocated in Punjab, of which six projects amounting to 108 tpd are operational and consuming 350,000 tonnes of paddy straw per annum. In addition, four projects amounting to 45 tpd will become operational during the current financial year,” he says.
Singh describes his management style as inclusive, goal-oriented and adaptive. He believes that the best ideas often come from the ground up. “Empowering people to think independently and solve problems creatively is key to organisational success,” he says.
Outside the boardroom, Singh enjoys learning about the renewable sector and volunteering in community initiatives, believing that work-life balance and constant learning are vital for long-term professional growth. These pursuits also keep him grounded and energised for the challenges ahead.
Going forward, Singh is focused on expanding CBG adoption across India, especially in rural and semi-urban areas. His goal is to help build infrastructure and ecosystems that make clean energy affordable, accessible and scalable, and also create green jobs. “Whether it is mentoring the next generation of sustainability leaders or contributing to national energy policy, I continue to be a passionate advocate for a greener, more inclusive future,” he says.