Digital Grid Revolution: Sujith Nair Calls For UPI-Like Model In India’s Energy Sector

Image Source : Platform Cooperativism Consortium

Sujith Nair, co-founder of FIDE, has proposed a UPI-style digital infrastructure for India’s energy sector. The model aims to decentralize access, enable interoperability, and empower millions of small energy producers and consumers. The vision aligns with India’s push for inclusive, tech-driven sustainability and energy equity.

In a bold call for reform, Sujith Nair, CEO and co-founder of the Foundation for Interoperability in Digital Economy (FIDE), has urged India to adopt a UPI-like model for its energy sector. Speaking at a recent forum, Nair emphasized that just as UPI transformed digital payments into a population-scale habit, a similar digital infrastructure could democratize energy access and accelerate sustainability.

Key Highlights

Nair’s proposal centers on the creation of a “Digital Energy Grid” that enables seamless transactions between producers, distributors, and consumers
The model would allow millions of decentralized energy resources—such as rooftop solar units and microgrids—to plug into a unified digital ecosystem
Inspired by the Beckn Protocol, the system would ensure interoperability across public and private platforms, fostering innovation and competition
Nair stressed that energy, like payments, should be treated as a universal utility with open access and transparent pricing
The initiative aims to empower small businesses, rural communities, and startups by reducing entry barriers and enhancing visibility
He cited early adoption trends and growing demand surges as indicators that the time is ripe for scalable digital transformation in energy
The model would also support real-time data sharing, dynamic pricing, and automated billing, improving efficiency and accountability
Nandan Nilekani, a key architect of India’s digital public infrastructure, has endorsed the idea, calling energy “the next UPI moment”

The proposal has sparked interest among policymakers, technologists, and sustainability advocates. If implemented, it could redefine how India manages energy distribution, consumption, and innovation—making the sector more inclusive, resilient, and future-ready.

Sources: World News, Economic Times CFO, LinkedIn Post by Sujith Nair

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