MODULE 3 - Sectoral Actions for Energy Transition

The Indian Energy Transition Series

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Module 3 -Sectoral Actions for Energy Transition

(Playtime - 5:51)

This video breaks down how India’s major sectors — industry, transport, buildings, MSMEs, and agriculture can shift to cleaner energy, and why some sectors are easier to decarbonize than others.

🔑 Key Takeaways
  • India’s major sectors—industry, transport, buildings, MSMEs, and agriculture—must transition differently for the country to meet its clean energy goals.

  • Electrification can cut emissions in many areas, but heavy industries need additional solutions like green hydrogen.

  • MSMEs represent one of India’s biggest opportunities for fast, cost-effective clean energy adoption.

  • Growing cities and rising cooling demand require efficient, renewable-powered buildings and urban systems.

  • Rural India can significantly reduce fossil fuel dependence through solar irrigation, micro-grids, and decentralized renewables.

  • Smart planning, supportive policies and the right technologies are key to driving a balanced, affordable, sector-wise transition.

Why Sectoral Action Matters

India’s energy transition has three major goals:

  • Achieve net zero

  • Increase renewable energy generation

  • Shift citizens and industries to cleaner energy

But as the economy grows, energy demand is rising — making it essential to reshape how individual sectors use energy.

India’s Sector-wise Emissions
Source: Ideas for India (I4I)
MSMEs: A High-Potential Opportunity

6.3M

MSMEs in India

Micro, small, and medium enterprises across the nation.

30%

Manufacturing Sector

MSMEs contribute significantly to India's manufacturing sector.

35%

Energy Savings Potential

Estimated efficiency gains through clean energy adoption.

 

India's 6.3 million MSMEs represent a transformative opportunity. Many operate in industrial clusters with shared infrastructure.

These enterprises don't require high-temperature fossil fuels. They can adopt clean energy solutions quickly and cost-effectively.

Rooftop Solar

On-site renewable generation reducing grid dependency.

Efficient Machinery

Energy-smart equipment lowering operational costs.

Green Logistics

Electric transport for supply chains and distribution.

Smart Buildings

Energy-efficient design and climate control systems.

Transport & Mobility

EV adoption is accelerating steadily. Multiple vehicle segments are transitioning simultaneously.

Electric vehicle sales demonstrate consistent upward trajectory. Infrastructure development supports this growth.

 

 

Buildings, Cities & Cooling Demand
70%

India’s Future Infrastructure Yet to Be Built

Most of India’s 2047 urban infrastructure is still ahead — shaping long-term energy demand.

6

Megacities

Urban expansion will sharply increase energy use in homes, offices, and public buildings.

32%

Buildings Consume a Third of India’s Electricity

Homes and commercial buildings together account for nearly one-third of India's total electricity use.

Strategic Opportunities

Energy-Efficient Design

Buildings incorporating passive cooling, natural ventilation, and thermal insulation.

Renewable-Powered Spaces

Commercial buildings generating their own clean electricity on-site.

Climate-Resilient Planning

Smart, integrated urban systems designed for extreme weather events.

Agriculture

Decentralised renewable solutions can transform rural energy use. These technologies offer independence from unreliable grids.

Solar-Powered Irrigation

Reliable, cost-effective water pumping for farms.

Micro-Grids

Community-level renewable electricity distribution systems.

Biogas Plants

Converting agricultural waste into cooking fuel.

Solar Powered Dryers & Cold Storage

Preserving crops using renewable-powered systems.

What the Path Forward Needs

The sectoral energy transition requires coordinated action. Multiple elements must align simultaneously.

Some shifts are already happening naturally. Others need new investments and policy frameworks.