MODULE 2 — Energy Transition: The Indian Perspective

The Indian Energy Transition Series

Emerging Trends in Indian Foreign Policy: Perspectives for the West - Heinrich Böll Stiftung Delhi

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Module 2 - Energy Transition: The Indian Perspective

(Playtime - 6:26)

This video explains why India’s energy transition is both urgent and complex. It covers India’s targets, the country’s rising energy demand, regional inequalities, and the challenges of shifting from a fossil-fuel heavy economy.

🔑 Key Takeaways
  • India is the world’s 3rd-largest energy consumer and GHG emitter

  • Over 80% of primary energy still comes from fossil fuels

  • India has achieved 50% non-fossil power capacity by 2025 — five years early

  • National targets include a 45% reduction in emission intensity and net-zero by 2070

  • India’s long-term strategy spans seven major transitions — from transport to forests

  • Rising demand, regional imbalances and land-use issues make implementation complex

India’s Energy Landscape: Scale & Urgency

India is the world’s third-largest energy consumer and its development needs continue to grow.

More than 80% of primary energy still comes from fossil fuels, making the transition essential for climate resilience and long-term sustainability.

At the same time, citizens and policymakers increasingly recognise the need for cleaner, more reliable and affordable energy systems.

India’s Climate Commitments

Under the Paris Agreement, India pledged to:

  • Reduce the emission intensity of GDP by 45% by 2030

  • Ensure 50% of installed power capacity comes from non-fossil sources

As of June 2025, India has already crossed the 50% non-fossil capacity mark — five years early.

India also commits to creating large-scale forest carbon sinks and achieving net-zero emissions by 2070

45%
GDP Emission Intensity

 Target reduction by 2030

50%
Non-Fossil Capacity

Already achieved in 2025

2070
Net-Zero Target

Long-term climate commitment

India’s Renewable Energy Growth (Click on ▶︎ for chart)

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The Road Ahead: Progress with Practical Challenges

Rising Energy Demand

Record heat in 2024 pushed demand to 250 GW. Temporary reliance on older coal plants was required. Grid resilience remains crucial.

Regional Differences

Coal-heavy states face economic and workforce dependencies, while renewable investment is concentrated in western and southern India.

Responding to Local Concerns

Communities have raised issues around land, water and livelihood impacts of large renewable projects — emphasising the need for careful planning.

More Modules

Module 1 
What is Energy Transition

Module 3 
Sectoral Actions For Energy Transition

Module 4 
Just Energy Transition

Module 5
Women and Energy Transition

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