<h1>Government cuts GST on renewable energy equipment from 18% to 5% to lower costs and boost investment</h1> The government reduced GST on renewable energy equipment from 18% to 5% effective Sept 22, aiming to lower costs and mobilize investment, with officials estimating investor savings of Rs 1-1.5 lakh crore through 2030. The cut is expected to reduce rooftop solar system prices and savings under agricultural solar pump schemes, support the national target of 500 GW non-fossil capacity by 2030, and facilitate large capacity additions. The energy ministry will hold further talks with states on energy storage, transmission planning and power purchase agreements to address deployment, grid integration and procurement issues.