New Delhi: India has emerged as a global solar superpower, powered by rapid growth in renewable energy and a highly skilled workforce, according to United Nations climate chief Simon Stiell. He said the country’s transition towards clean energy is strengthening the economy while reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
Speaking in New Delhi, Stiell highlighted the remarkable expansion of India’s solar sector, noting that the country’s installed solar capacity has increased more than 50 times since 2014. He said India’s technology driven workforce has become a major competitive advantage in the global race for clean energy.
India has already achieved a major milestone by ensuring that half of its total installed power generation capacity now comes from non fossil fuel sources, reaching the target five years ahead of schedule. The achievement reflects coordinated efforts by the government, industry and citizens to accelerate the country’s energy transition.
India’s solar manufacturing capacity has also expanded dramatically, growing 75 times since 2014. This growth has helped make the country one of the world’s most competitive solar markets, with some of the lowest solar power generation costs globally. Increased use of renewable energy also reduced fossil fuel imports, resulting in savings of around 18 billion US dollars last year.
Stiell said expanding solar and other renewable energy sources would improve India’s energy security by reducing its reliance on imported crude oil and limiting exposure to global fuel price volatility. He added that every new renewable energy project brings the country closer to greater energy independence.
He also stressed that India’s large pool of engineers, technology professionals and skilled workers could help establish the country as a global manufacturing hub for clean technologies, including smart grids, green steel, electronics and electric vehicles, creating millions of jobs and driving long term economic growth.
While praising India’s progress, Stiell cautioned that the world remains vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including extreme heat, irregular monsoons and threats to agriculture. He urged faster global action to reduce reliance on coal, oil and gas, while calling on developed nations to fulfil their financial commitments to support developing countries in building climate resilient and low carbon economies.
