India has set an ambitious target to achieve net zero emissions by 2070, reflecting its commitment to combating climate change while addressing its growing energy needs. The Indian government has introduced a range of net zero policies, focusing on renewable energy, green hydrogen, and emission reductions across various sectors.
Key Policies Driving India’s Net Zero Emissions Roadmap
Panchamrit Declaration: At COP26 in Glasgow in 2021, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the “Panchamrit” plan, which sets five major climate goals for India. These include:
- Reaching a non-fossil fuel energy capacity of 500 GW by 2030.
- Fulfilling 50% of its energy needs through renewable sources by 2030.
- Reducing total projected carbon emissions by 1 billion tons by 2030.
- Lowering the carbon intensity of the economy by 45% from 2005 levels by 2030.
- Achieving net-zero emissions by 2070
National Green Hydrogen Mission: In 2023, the government launched the National Green Hydrogen Mission with an investment of INR 19,700 crore (approximately $2.4 billion). The aim is to position India as a global hub for green hydrogen production, which is expected to be a crucial element in reducing emissions from industries like steel and cement, which are difficult to decarbonize.
Energy Transition Investments: In the Union Budget 2023-24, India allocated INR 35,000 crore ($4.2 billion) towards energy transition and net-zero objectives. This includes investments in renewable energy, grid modernization, and clean technology development. The goal is to create a sustainable and resilient energy system while accelerating the decarbonization process.
Solar Power Initiatives: As part of its clean energy push, India has significantly ramped up its solar capacity, co-founding the International Solar Alliance (ISA). With over 110 member countries, the ISA promotes the use of solar power, particularly in developing nations, and supports the development of 10 GW of solar projects globally. India’s domestic solar capacity also plays a crucial role in the country’s target to meet 50% of its electricity needs from renewable sources by 2030.
Forestry and Carbon Sinks: India has committed to enhancing its natural carbon sinks by increasing forest and tree cover, aiming to absorb 2.5 to 3 billion metric tons of CO2 by 2030. The country has already made progress, with its forest carbon stock growing by approximately 160 million metric tons between 2015 and 2021.
Electrification and Energy Efficiency: India is also focusing on electrifying its transport sector and increasing energy efficiency across industries. Electric vehicle (EV) promotion is supported through schemes such as FAME (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles), and incentives are being offered to boost EV adoption.
Moving Forward…
Despite these robust initiatives, India faces several challenges on the road to net zero. The country still relies heavily on coal, which accounted for 45% of its primary energy supply in 2022. Reducing this dependency while ensuring energy security and economic growth is a delicate balance. Moreover, achieving net-zero will require an estimated $10.1 trillion in investments by 2070, and securing such massive financial resources is another major hurdle.
In summary, while India has put in place a comprehensive policy framework to achieve net-zero by 2070, realizing this vision will require sustained efforts, significant investments, and technological advancements. The country’s approach, centered on renewable energy, green hydrogen, and natural carbon sinks, positions it as a leader in the global fight against climate change. However, overcoming its coal dependency and ensuring a just energy transition remain critical challenges.
