Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese met with members of the Smart Energy Council’s India Delegation on his first visit to the country as PM.

Mr Albanese greeted delegates in Ahmedabad before joining Prime Minister Narendra Modi on day one of the Fourth Test between India and Australia.

Mr Albanese is in India for four days with Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell and Resources Minister Madeleine King.

“Thirty-four Australian companies, just says a lot about the opportunity that is there if only we seize it,” said Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

“That opportunity is shifting to cleaner, smarter energy, but it’s also about reaching out to the world – there can’t be a solution on climate change, without international action.

“But, it also makes good economic sense, it’s about Australian jobs and Australian businesses growing.

“It is indeed smart economics, not just smart energy.

“Australia has been very good at innovation, in renewables and smart technology, but we haven’t always been good at commercialising those opportunities for Australia’s advantage.

“This is about win-win, a win for Australia, a win for India – closer economic relations with what is the fifth largest economy in the world and growing.

The Prime Minister will discuss trade and investment, renewable energy, technology, defence and security cooperation with Indian counterparts.

Mr Albanese spoke with leading Australian and Indian smart energy business leaders, economic analysts, ethical investors and manufacturers – as part of the Smart Energy Council’s delegation.

“The Smart Energy Council is honoured that Prime Minister Albanese met with our delegates; and is looking to strengthen India-Australia business ties – just as we are,” said Smart Energy Council CEO John Grimes.

“As India scales up solar and battery production, looks to build massive projects overseas, and rolls out cutting-edge energy technology at home, the opportunities for collaboration are immense.

“We’re in a critical and global race for renewable energy investment, if Australia seizes this opportunity, we could become a renewable energy superpower.

The Smart Energy Delegation to India continues through Delhi, Mumbai and concludes in Bengaluru on March 19.