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Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored India’s rapid strides in solar energy, stating that the country’s solar capacity has increased 32-fold over the last decade.
Addressing the International Solar Festival via video on Thursday, he expressed confidence that this growth would help India achieve its ambitious target of 500 GW renewable energy capacity by 2030. “In recent years, India has made significant progress in green energy. We were the first G20 nation to meet the Paris Agreement’s renewable energy commitments,” Modi remarked.
He credited solar energy for driving this transformation, adding, “Our solar energy capacity has increased 32-fold in the last ten years. This pace will be key to achieving 500 GW non-fossil capacity by 2030.”
Democratizing Green Energy for Developing Nations
The Prime Minister emphasized the need for democratizing green energy technologies and manufacturing to support developing nations, highlighting the importance of including marginalized communities and youth in the solar sector. “Empowering the least developed countries and small island nations is critical for global green energy success,” he said.
Reflecting on ancient wisdom, Modi referenced Vedic traditions, stressing that the reverence for the Sun is deeply rooted in Indian culture. “For thousands of years, the Vedas have praised the Sun, a tradition still alive today with millions of Indians chanting solar mantras.”
ISA Growth: 100 Countries on Board
Modi lauded the International Solar Alliance (ISA), noting its growth to 100 member countries, with 19 more set to join. He described ISA’s journey since its inception in 2015 as a symbol of hope, contributing to global solar energy policy and action. “The vision of ‘one world, one Sun, one grid’ is steadily becoming a reality,” he stated.
India’s Green Energy Vision with German Partnership
As India advances its renewable energy ambitions, Germany has pledged its expertise to support India’s green energy goals. Ahead of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s upcoming visit, Uwe Gehlen, head of development cooperation at the German Embassy in New Delhi, said, “Our partnership with India goes beyond technology transfer; we are here to support India’s leadership in the global energy transition.”
Dr. Ajay Mathur, Director General of ISA, also emphasized the strength of Indo-German cooperation, stating, “The partnership between India and Germany can significantly accelerate the deployment of renewable technologies like solar.”
Union Minister Joshi Stresses Solar’s Role in Carbon Reduction
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, President of the ISA Assembly, echoed Modi’s sentiments, combining India’s ancient solar traditions with modern energy advancements. “We used to worship the Sun even during Mahabharata times,” Joshi said, noting that many Indians continue to practice Suryanamaskar as part of their daily routines.
Joshi emphasized India’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, despite having one of the lowest per capita CO2 emissions. He also acknowledged the ongoing global challenge of energy access, with over 675 million people still lacking reliable electricity. “Ensuring energy access is a priority alongside transitioning to renewable energy sources,” he remarked.
Key Initiatives to Advance Solar Energy
Joshi also highlighted new initiatives, including the SolarX Startup Challenge, which seeks innovative solutions to solar sector challenges, and the Global Solar Facility, which aims to bridge investment gaps in high-risk regions. India’s installed solar capacity has now exceeded 87.2 GW, with 87 percent coming from utility-scale projects.
India and Germany: Partners for a Green Future
India, the world’s most populous country, is targeting 500 GW of renewable energy and 125 GW of green hydrogen production by 2030. Germany has expressed keen interest in supporting India’s green ambitions through the Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP), initiated in 2022 by Modi and Scholz.
