India Reaffirms Equitable Energy Transition at IRENA Assembly in Abu Dhabi

India Reaffirms Commitment to Fair and Inclusive Energy Transition at IRENA Assembly

India reiterated its commitment to a just, equitable, and sustainable global energy transition at the 16th Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) held in Abu Dhabi. Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi delivered India’s national statement, outlining the country’s progress, priorities, and expectations from international cooperation in accelerating the global clean energy shift.

Equity at the Core of India’s Energy Transition

Addressing the Assembly, the Minister said India’s approach to energy transition is guided by the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—One Earth, One Family, One Future . He underlined that India’s long-term strategy is rooted in equity, inclusivity, and policy stability , ensuring that climate action complements developmental needs.

India reaffirmed its commitment to achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel power capacity by 2030 and reaching Net Zero emissions by 2070 , aligning national development priorities with global climate objectives.

Early Achievement of Climate Commitments

India highlighted that it has already achieved 50% of its installed electricity capacity from non-fossil fuel sources in 2025 , five years ahead of its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) timeline under the Paris Agreement. The country’s non-fossil fuel capacity has crossed 266 GW , placing India among the global leaders in renewable energy deployment.

As one of the fastest-growing major energy markets, India is strengthening grid resilience through energy storage systems, grid modernisation, Green Energy Corridors, and innovative bidding models such as hybrid and round-the-clock renewable energy projects.

People-Centric Energy Programmes

The Minister emphasised that India’s energy transition remains people-focused . Under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana , around 2.5 million households have adopted rooftop solar within less than two years, with a target of 10 million households by March 2027 .

Similarly, the PM-KUSUM scheme has benefited about 2.17 million farmers through solarisation of agricultural feeders and replacement of diesel pumps, lowering farming costs while reducing emissions and improving rural energy access.

Investment Needs and Global Cooperation

India highlighted that achieving its clean energy ambitions will require approximately USD 300 billion in investment by 2030 , spanning renewable generation, energy storage, green hydrogen, grid infrastructure, and domestic manufacturing. The Minister described India as a stable and attractive destination for clean energy investment , supported by transparent policies and large-scale market opportunities.

Calling for stronger global cooperation, India stressed the need for technology transfer, affordable finance, capacity building, and harmonised standards , particularly to support developing countries, Least Developed Countries (LDCs), and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in scaling up renewable energy without constraining growth.

Key Exam-Focused Points

• India achieved 50% non-fossil electricity capacity in 2025 , ahead of its NDC timeline.

• India’s non-fossil capacity has crossed 266 GW .

• Target of 500 GW non-fossil power capacity by 2030 .