An Energy Atma Nirbharta Act – India’s Path to Clean Energy Independence What is in the News India’s energy sector has witnessed a transformative shift in 2025 with the government’s renewed focus on achieving “Energy Atma Nirbharta” — or energy self-reliance. As of August 2025, India’s total installed power capacity has reached 495.55 GW, marking a major step toward its long-term clean energy goals under the Panchamrit commitments announced at the COP26 Summit. Nearly 49% of this capacity now comes from non-fossil sources, signalling remarkable progress toward the target of 500 GW by 2030. This development aligns with India’s broader strategy of reducing fossil fuel dependence, promoting renewable energy (RE), and meeting the national goal of Net Zero emissions by 2070. Join Telegram :Join our Telegram group to get instant alerts and study materials on current affairs and important topics: Link Join Instagram:Follow us on Instagram for quick facts, infographics, and updates on UPSC and government exams: Link India’s Energy Landscape – Key Facts and Figures India has made significant progress in diversifying its energy mix: The total installed capacity stands at 495.55 GW, of which 235.7 GW is non-fossil-based, including 226.9 GW from renewables and 8.8 GW from nuclear sources. However, over 85% of India’s primary energy consumption continues to rely on fossil fuels, with crude oil import dependence also around 85%. According to IRENA’s 2025 Renewable Energy Statistics, India ranks 4th globally in renewable energy capacity, 3rd in solar power, and 4th in wind energy. The key institutions driving this transition include NITI Aayog, which provides strategic policy direction; the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), which oversees renewable development; and the Ministry of Power, which manages national power policy and distribution. This combination of rapid expansion and high dependence highlights both India’s progress and challenges in achieving energy self-sufficiency. Recent Developments and Global Context India’s clean energy journey is guided by the Panchamrit commitments made at COP26. These include achieving 500 GW of non-fossil capacity by 2030, meeting 50% of energy requirements through renewables, and attaining Net Zero emissions by 2070. A landmark initiative under this vision is the National Green Hydrogen Mission (SIGHT), with an investment of ₹19,744 crore. The mission aims to produce 5 million metric tonnes (MMT) of green hydrogen annually by 2030, potentially reducing fossil fuel imports by over ₹1 lakh crore. Globally, India’s role is becoming central to the energy transition. As per the International Energy Agency (IEA), 85% of the projected increase in global electricity demand over the next three years will come from emerging economies such as India — emphasizing its crucial position in shaping the world’s clean energy future. International Commitments and National Policies India’s domestic energy transition is deeply intertwined with international obligations and innovative policies: Under the Paris Agreement and COP26, India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) provide the foundation for climate-friendly energy reforms. The Strategic Petroleum Reserves Programme (SPRP) has been strengthened to ensure energy security and buffer against global oil price volatility. NITI Aayog is also promoting a Carbon Capture, Utilisation & Storage (CCUS) policy to decarbonize sectors that are difficult to transition, such as steel and cement. These frameworks reflect a balanced approach — promoting clean energy while maintaining stability in traditional energy supply chains. Join Telegram :Join our Telegram group to get instant alerts and study materials on current affairs and important topics: Link Join Instagram:Follow us on Instagram for quick facts, infographics, and updates on UPSC and government exams: Link India vs. the Global Energy Scenario While India’s renewable energy expansion is commendable, its high reliance on coal and oil imports remains a structural challenge. Coal continues to dominate power generation, and over a quarter of coal supply is imported. In contrast, developed nations that advocate renewable transitions often maintain significant fossil dependencies — a global paradox that underscores inequity in the climate transition. Another challenge lies in critical mineral dependence. India lacks domestic reserves of key minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which are essential for renewable technologies and electric vehicles (EVs). Meanwhile, China dominates the global processing and supply chain of these minerals, creating a strategic vulnerability for India and other developing economies. Source-Wise Energy Profile (August 2025) India’s power mix as of August 2025 is as follows: Coal: 45.09% – remains the backbone of power generation. Solar: 24.85% – the fastest-growing source and major contributor to the renewable portfolio. Wind: 10.63% – steady contributor to the RE sector. Hydro: 10.11% – supports base load generation. Oil & Gas: 4.18% – limited but critical for industrial use. Bio Power: 2.34% – gaining traction through biofuel initiatives. Nuclear: 1.77% – essential for clean base-load energy. India’s installed capacity has expanded dramatically — from 305 GW in 2015-16 to nearly 496 GW in 2025-26, marking a decade of robust renewable growth. Join Telegram :Join our Telegram group to get instant alerts and study materials on current affairs and important topics: Link Join Instagram:Follow us on Instagram for quick facts, infographics, and updates on UPSC and government exams: Link India’s Net Zero Emission Target – The Panchamrit Vision India’s Net Zero target by 2070 is anchored in five key commitments: Achieve 500 GW non-fossil capacity by 2030. Meet 50% of total energy requirements from renewable sources. Reduce carbon intensity of GDP by 45% by 2030 (from 2005 levels). Cut projected carbon emissions by 1 billion tonnes by 2030. Attain Net Zero emissions by 2070. This framework reflects India’s long-term dedication to balancing economic growth with climate responsibility. India’s Crude Oil Dependence and Energy Security Energy security remains a pressing issue, as India imports around 85% of its crude oil. The top suppliers as of 2024 include: Russia (40%) Iraq (22%) Saudi Arabia (15%) United Arab Emirates (11%) United States (4–5%) Such heavy import reliance exposes India to global price shocks and geopolitical uncertainties, emphasizing the need for domestic energy diversification. Government’s Clean Energy Budget and Major Initiatives The Indian government has rolled out multiple schemes to strengthen clean energy adoption: National Green Hydrogen Mission: ₹19,744 crore investment to promote green hydrogen, with an expected reduction of ₹1 lakh crore in fossil fuel imports. Ethanol Blended Petrol Programme: Encourages the blending of ethanol with petrol to reduce emissions. National Solar Mission: Aims for 1,00,000 MW of grid-connected solar capacity. FAME Scheme: Promotes the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (EVs) across India. These initiatives collectively aim to reduce import dependency, promote clean manufacturing, and make India a global clean energy hub. Join Telegram :Join our Telegram group to get instant alerts and study materials on current affairs and important topics: Link Join Instagram:Follow us on Instagram for quick facts, infographics, and updates on UPSC and government exams: Link LiFE – Lifestyle for Environment The LiFE movement, introduced by the Prime Minister at COP26, emphasizes individual and community responsibility for sustainability. It advocates for a “pro-planet lifestyle”, focusing on reducing energy waste, adopting eco-friendly habits, and supporting clean energy solutions. The campaign has evolved into a mass movement, linking everyday behavior with national and global sustainability goals. Sustainable Energy Goals – Domestic and Global At the domestic level, the Panchamrit targets remain the cornerstone of India’s sustainable energy roadmap, driving both policy and innovation. Globally, India is co-leading the International Solar Alliance (ISA), which envisions 1,000 GW of solar generation capacity by 2030. Achieving this requires an estimated $1 trillion in global investment, showcasing the scale of cooperation needed to secure a clean energy future. Join Telegram :Join our Telegram group to get instant alerts and study materials on current affairs and important topics: Link Join Instagram:Follow us on Instagram for quick facts, infographics, and updates on UPSC and government exams: Link Conclusion India’s journey toward Energy Atma Nirbharta represents a defining moment in its economic and environmental trajectory. With nearly half of its installed capacity already non-fossil and ambitious goals for 2030 and 2070, India stands as a leader among developing nations in renewable transition. Yet, challenges such as fossil dependence, critical mineral scarcity, and technological adoption must be addressed through innovation, investment, and global partnerships. If achieved, the Energy Atma Nirbharta Act will not only power India sustainably but also set an example for equitable global climate action.
