India has reaffirmed its commitment to a sustainable energy future at the Hamburg Sustainability Conference in Germany on October 7, 2024. Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Shri Pralhad Joshi, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing India’s role as a global leader in energy transition and green shipping.
In his speech, the Minister highlighted India’s significant achievements in renewable energy. He noted that India is the only G20 country to meet its climate goals ahead of schedule, despite having the lowest per capita emissions among G20 nations. He explained that while energy security and access remain critical, this has not slowed India’s efforts to transition to renewable energy, both domestically and internationally.
Shri Joshi emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India has seen a remarkable 175% increase in renewable energy capacity since 2014, growing from 75 GW to over 208 GW. Additionally, the country’s total renewable energy production has risen 86% during this period. The Minister also highlighted India’s leadership in the International Solar Alliance, which is supported by over 100 countries in the fight against climate change through solar energy initiatives.
Shri Joshi touched on India’s cultural heritage, stating that sustainability is deeply embedded in Indian traditions. He recited the Gayatri Mantra from the Rigveda to illustrate India’s long-standing belief in harmony with nature.
The Minister also addressed India’s green shipping initiatives, stressing the maritime sector’s importance in global trade and its environmental impact. As India works toward net-zero emissions, he highlighted the need for sustainable maritime transport. He shared that India is making progress in green shipbuilding, with efforts focused on modernizing shipyards and reopening older ones. The country aims to become a key hub for green shipbuilding and has put a strong emphasis on alternative fuels such as biofuels and wind power.
India is also upgrading its port infrastructure to support green shipping, intending to rank among the top five shipbuilding nations by 2047. The Minister discussed the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM), launched with $2.4 billion to produce 5 million metric tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030. He also mentioned pilot projects exploring the use of green hydrogen in shipping, with two vessels being converted to run on green methanol.
In closing, Shri Pralhad Joshi highlighted India’s innovative technologies, infrastructure investments, and international cooperation, positioning the country as a global leader in the energy transition.
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