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
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
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India is the world’s 3rd-largest energy consumer and GHG emitter
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Over 80% of primary energy still comes from fossil fuels
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India has achieved 50% non-fossil power capacity by 2025 — five years early
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National targets include a 45% reduction in emission intensity and net-zero by 2070
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India’s long-term strategy spans seven major transitions — from transport to forests
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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:
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Reduce the emission intensity of GDP by 45% by 2030
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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)