India is projected to experience a significant increase in energy demand, with requirements expected to more than double by 2047, according to Venu Gopal Mothkoor, Senior Specialist of Energy at NITI Aayog. Mothkoor spoke during a roundtable discussion hosted by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) focused on “Doubling the Rate of Energy Efficiency of Indian Industry 2030”. He highlighted that currently, approximately 84% of India’s energy production relies on coal.
Mothkoor emphasized the critical need for energy efficiency and demand electrification to achieve a 51% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2047. This initiative aligns with the country’s broader goals of reducing carbon output and enhancing sustainability.
Abhay Bakre, Director General of the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), also emphasized the role of energy efficiency as a cost-effective strategy to meet India’s growing energy needs. During the event, discussions covered the importance of decarbonization, the adoption of clean fuels, digitalization, and the promotion of sustainable building practices and smart appliances.
Arijit Sengupta, Director of BEE, mentioned significant CO2 reduction targets for 2030, with a specific focus on industries such as steel, cement, pulp and paper, petrochemicals, and aluminum. He noted that these efforts are supported by recent amendments to the Energy Conservation Act in 2022 and the development of the India Carbon Market plan. Additionally, new Green Hydrogen consumption norms and ‘Carbon Intensity Targets’ are being introduced to incentivize further reductions in energy use.
SP Garnaik, Country Representative India (In-Charge) and Asia Regional Lead (Energy Efficiency), called for a supportive environment for technology adoption and financing. He highlighted national-level programs focusing on waste heat recovery and industrial pump replacement as key strategies.
The discussion at the roundtable brought to light the urgent need for concerted efforts to meet the escalating energy demands through increased efficiency, setting a pathway towards a sustainable energy future for India.
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