Sustainability Karma

India's first and only show on sustainability on All India Radio

Opinions

India’s vast renewable resources and technological strides make it uniquely positioned to lead: Rajesh Patel of Snowkap

By embracing innovation—green hydrogen production, smart grids, and carbon markets—India is not only adapting but shaping global sustainability standards.

India’s carbon economy is undergoing a tectonic shift. The nation’s enhanced Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) lay bare its ambitious climate vision. With commitments to increase renewable energy capacity, slash emissions intensity, and expand carbon sink initiatives, India has made it clear: this isn’t a slow pivot. It’s a bold leap.

But the journey ahead is fraught with complexities. Millions still rely on coal for their livelihoods. Industries, long driven by fossil fuels, must adapt to cleaner, greener alternatives. The energy sector, a cornerstone of India’s emissions, needs an overhaul of unprecedented scale.

India’s Green Transition and COP29 Commitments

COP29 is a critical milestone in India’s journey toward a carbon-neutral future. With global carbon pricing, enhanced climate financing, and sector-specific emission reduction commitments, India has the tools it needs to accelerate its transition to a green economy. This agreement provides a universal approach to carbon pricing and trading, aligning international markets. As part of these efforts, COP29 reaffirmed the $100 billion annual climate financing commitment, which will directly benefit emerging economies like India.

This expanded financing will provide India with the necessary resources to tackle its climate adaptation and mitigation challenges. It is expected to accelerate projects in renewable energy infrastructure, technology transfer, and green industries. India’s ambitious renewable energy goals, including achieving 50% of electricity from non-fossil sources by 2030, will be supported by these funds. The increased financial flows will strengthen efforts in green hydrogen, solar, and wind energy, helping reduce fossil fuel dependence and create new green job opportunities.

For industries like steel and cement, which account for a significant portion of India’s emissions, the focus will be on adopting energy-efficient technologies and alternative fuels. The push for carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) will become vital in mitigating emissions from these hard-to-decarbonise sectors. As India strives to meet COP29’s commitments, the country will see increased demand for green technologies and sustainable manufacturing practices.

India’s Comprehensive Strategy for Achieving Renewable Energy Goals

India’s strategy to meet its ambitious renewable energy goals involves a comprehensive, multi-pronged approach. Key investments are being made in transmission infrastructure, including over 51,000 circuit kilometers of new lines and enhanced transformation capacity. This will integrate renewable energy sources into the national grid, ensuring reliable power distribution. Alongside infrastructure, India is leveraging international financing mechanisms like the Green Climate Fund to accelerate renewable energy projects and improve energy efficiency. Domestic manufacturing is also being bolstered through initiatives like the National Green Hydrogen Mission and Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes. Public campaigns, such as ‘LIFE’ (Lifestyle for Environment), promote sustainable living and encourage the adoption of green practices, helping to reduce emissions and fostering a culture of sustainability.

Transforming Key Indian Industries for a Green Future

India’s industries are on the cusp of a major transformation as the country shifts towards a greener, more sustainable economy. The energy sector is set for a rapid transition to renewable sources, with large-scale solar and wind projects at the forefront. Green hydrogen production and upgraded grid infrastructure will support this transition, while international funding and technology transfer will play a key role. To meet renewable energy targets, India is also exploring incentives to encourage private sector participation and partnerships with global stakeholders.

Manufacturing sectors such as cement, steel, and chemicals face the challenge of adopting energy-efficient technologies and meeting global emissions standards. Carbon capture and utilisation (CCU), along with alternative fuels and process innovation, will gain importance. Additionally, companies will be required to disclose Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, increasing transparency and accountability in their emissions reduction efforts.

In transportation, India’s focus on electric mobility is clear. Expanding electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, along with policy incentives for EV adoption, will accelerate the shift to green mobility. Public-private collaborations will help develop charging networks and support the “Make in India” initiative for manufacturing EV components domestically. Investments in mass transit, such as metro rails and electric buses, will further reduce urban emissions, making transportation a key driver in India’s green transition.

Harnessing Opportunities, Overcoming Challenges

India’s vast renewable resources and technological strides make it uniquely positioned to lead. Yet, the dual mandate of fostering economic growth while meeting climate goals tests its resolve. Balancing the interests of rural communities, coal-dependent workers, and industry stakeholders is no small feat.

The country’s burgeoning carbon market exemplifies its progress. Valued at over $1.2 billion in 2024, India contributes 17% of global carbon credits, with 278 million credits issued between 2010 and 2022. This market is expected to create over 200,000 jobs in green finance, carbon verification, and environmental consulting, bolstering India’s green economy.

By embracing innovation—green hydrogen production, smart grids, and carbon markets—India is not only adapting but shaping global sustainability standards. The country’s burgeoning carbon trading market, with its potential for job creation and international trade linkages, epitomises this progress.

A Future Worth Fighting For

The evolution of India’s carbon economy post-COP29 isn’t just about meeting international targets. It’s about redefining what growth means in the 21st century. With bold policies, resilient communities, and a shared commitment to sustainability, India is setting a blueprint for others to follow. This is India’s moment—to lead, to innovate, and to inspire. The world is watching.