New Delhi, [Date]: In a resolute step towards embracing green energy and sustainable development, India has set a bold target of achieving 50 percent non-fossil installed capacity by 2030, as announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a virtual address to the G20 energy ministers. The address focused on the crucial role of the G20 group in spearheading sustainable and inclusive energy transition, with a particular emphasis on incorporating the Global South and extending low-cost finance options to developing nations.
With India being the world’s most populous country and boasting the fastest-growing large economy, the nation is making commendable strides in fulfilling its climate commitments. PM Modi proudly disclosed that India has already surpassed its non-fossil installed electric capacity target nine years ahead of schedule, a testament to the country’s dedication to combating climate change. Building on this success, India is now poised to set even more ambitious goals for itself in the realm of renewable energy.
The Prime Minister remarked, “We are among the global leaders in solar and wind power,” underscoring India’s substantial progress in adopting clean energy solutions. As evidence of its commitment to sustainable energy, delegates from the G20 Working Group were offered the opportunity to visit the Pavagada Solar Park and Modhera Solar Village, emblematic of India’s strides in renewable energy deployment.
PM Modi highlighted several remarkable achievements accomplished over the past nine years. Among these are connecting over 190 million households with LPG, a milestone in providing clean cooking solutions, and the historic achievement of electrifying every village in the country. India is now steadfastly working towards providing piped cooking gas to more than 90 percent of its population in the coming years, ensuring inclusive and resilient energy access for all citizens.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister pointed to significant initiatives that have contributed to energy efficiency and reduced carbon emissions. India’s initiative to replace traditional lighting with LED lights, which became the largest LED distribution program globally, has resulted in saving over 45 billion units of energy annually. Additionally, India has launched the world’s largest agricultural pump solarization initiative, promoting renewable energy use in the agricultural sector. A noteworthy projection for the domestic electric vehicle market, aiming for 10 million annual sales by 2030, reflects the country’s commitment to reducing emissions in the transportation sector.
PM Modi also shed light on India’s ambition to decarbonize through green hydrogen, positioning the nation as a global hub for the production, use, and export of green hydrogen and its derivatives. This move showcases India’s commitment to developing innovative, sustainable solutions for its energy needs and becoming a leader in the green hydrogen industry.
In his address, the Prime Minister urged the G20 group to play a pivotal role in driving sustainable and inclusive energy transition, particularly for developing nations. He stressed the significance of providing low-cost finance options and bridging technology gaps to empower countries in the Global South to embrace renewable energy solutions. Additionally, PM Modi highlighted the importance of promoting energy security and diversifying supply chains to ensure a more resilient and sustainable global energy ecosystem.
To foster energy security and collaboration, PM Modi proposed exploring the potential of transnational grid interconnections. India is actively pursuing mutually beneficial cooperation with its neighboring countries in this regard. He invited all participating nations to join the Green Grids Initiative of the International Solar Alliance, titled ‘One Sun, One World, One Grid,’ aimed at bolstering solar energy connectivity on a global scale.
As India leads the charge towards achieving 50 percent non-fossil installed capacity by 2030, the nation sets a powerful example for the rest of the world in transitioning towards sustainable energy sources. With an unwavering commitment to green energy growth and climate action, India stands poised to make a significant impact in shaping a greener and more sustainable future for all.
