Dr. Arvind Kumar*
The year 2024 will go down in history—not for a groundbreaking climate breakthrough, but for an unsettling milestone: it became the first year to surpass the 1.5°C temperature threshold above pre-industrial levels. That’s according to the Copernicus Climate Change Service and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO)—and no, it’s not the kind of record we should be celebrating. So, let’s get real: Are governments worldwide truly prepared to tackle the climate crisis head-on? Can we keep the lights on without torching the planet? And how do we ensure that this great green transition isn’t just for the privileged few, but for everyone? These are the million (or perhaps trillion) dollar questions that demand more than just grand speeches and well-intentioned pledges.
As the world reels from heatwaves, droughts, vanishing ice caps, and a biodiversity crisis that looks like a nature documentary’s worst nightmare, the urgency for decarbonization has never been clearer. And yet, while clean energy investments are outpacing new fossil fuel projects and renewable electricity generation is projected to soar by nearly 90% this decade, many countries are still stuck in an awkward energy limbo—juggling security, equity, and sustainability like a high-stakes game of climate Jenga. Take the EU’s REPower EU Plan, for instance, or the ambitious (but often slow-moving) commitments made at COP29. They’re pushing the transition forward, but geopolitical and economic turmoil keep throwing wrenches into the system. The result? Energy security often wins the day—sometimes at the cost of equity and inclusiveness, as highlighted in the Fostering Effective Energy Transition report. The bottom line? The world is moving toward sustainability, but at a pace that feels more like a cautious tiptoe than a decisive sprint. If we’re serious about securing a liveable future, the time for half-measures is over. It’s time to stop debating if we can transition and start proving that we actually will.
Is India Leading the Way?
Energy is a critical enabler of modern economy and society. Driven by the urgency of immediate and accelerated action for climate change mitigation, the transition to a sustainable, secure and inclusive energy system is one of the most challenging issues of our time. India has progressed considerably on its sustainable energy transition, especially in renewable energy. Overall, India’s non-fossil fuel-based energy capacity reached 217.62 GW in 2024, because of the all-time new addition of 24.5 GW in solar and 3.4 GW in wind in 2024. At present, the share of solar power in India’s total installed renewable energy capacity is 47%, supported by a strong growth of rooftop solar installations. Wind energy also experienced significant expansion, with Gujarat, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu at the forefront. Among key policies facilitating this shift are the National Green Hydrogen Mission, which seeks to deliver up to 5 million metric tons of green hydrogen every year by 2030. With the Renewable Energy Roadmap, non-fossil fuel energy capacity of 500GW is aimed by 2030, and it will make India a world’s model in terms of renewable energy. Furthermore, India has pledged to reach Net Zero by 2070, stressing its commitment to renewable energy. India also plays a pivotal role in global renewable energy initiatives, notably through its leadership in the International Solar Alliance (ISA). With continued government support and investment opportunities, India is poised to further accelerate its renewable energy growth, leveraging technologies like green hydrogen and large-scale battery storage to stabilize the grid.
Recently India Energy Week 2025, marked significant advancements in India’s clean energy vertical; with solar energy capacity boosted thirty-two times in last 10 years, India has become third largest generator of solar power in the world. Major announcements included strategic partnerships and investments with a view of energy security and sustainability. Notably, India signed multiple MoUs to diversify energy sources, including a USD 7 billion contract with ADNOC for liquefied natural gas imports. For example, in connection with this, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd and Eco Wave Power Ltd collaborated and started India’s first wave energy pilot project in Mumbai such developments align with India’s ambitious goals. The programme also highlighted advances such as the use of hydrogen bus and carbon capture technologies which underlined India’s focus on a low-carbon future and its responsibility as a frontrunner in global sustainable energy programme.
The global energy infrastructure is crucial for powering industries and driving economic growth, but the urgent need to transition to sustainable energy sources cannot be overstated. Speeding up the transition from fossil fuels to renewables is essential for sustainable energy and the attainment of SDGs, especially 7 and 13 which requires increasing renewables by an increase in installation and use of onshore wind and solar, as well as energy storage and transmission lines; Transforming power plants by shifting from coal to gas and integrating green hydrogen or carbon capture technologies can significantly reduce emissions; Securing supply chains for critical minerals like lithium and copper is vital for clean energy technologies; Electrical grid reinforcement in order to accommodate higher renewable energy integration is also important; Driving industrial decarbonization by using green hydrogen and carbon capture will play a key role in hard-to-abate industries. Further, it is required that there be a global downswing in the use of fossil fuels, and policies and investments in pushing that transition. Global partnerships and private sector involvement are essential for capitalizing on available resources and know-how to steer this change, while working with market-based approaches to optimally attract and mobilize finance in support of the transition.
Way Ahead
Let’s face it—our toxic relationship with fossil fuels is dragging us down. The more we cling to them, the hotter things get (literally). Climate change isn’t waiting for us to draft another policy paper; it’s demanding action, and fast. The only way forward? A full-throttle pivot to renewables. Enter India, a nation with big, bold, and sun-powered ambitions. With record-breaking investments in solar, wind, and green hydrogen, India isn’t just participating in the clean energy race—it’s looking to lead the charge. The blueprint is there, but turning vision into reality requires more than just grand announcements. Policymakers must lay the groundwork with clear regulations, incentives, and infrastructure that make clean energy the default, not the alternative. Industries need to put their money where their emissions are—prioritizing green financing, R&D, and cutting-edge tech that doesn’t just reduce carbon footprints but stomps them out entirely. Individuals can’t sit on the side lines, either. From reducing energy waste to supporting sustainable products, every small action stacks up in the grand climate ledger. Success won’t come from a single breakthrough but from a synchronized effort that balances energy security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. If we get it right, India won’t just be securing its own clean energy future—it will be setting the gold standard for the world. The bottom line? The fossil fuel era is gasping for breath, and the renewable revolution is knocking at the door. The real question is: Are we ready to answer?
*Editor, Focus Global Reporter
