India’s Ambitious Renewable Energy Vision: A Path to Global Leadership

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reaffirmed India’s commitment to achieving an ambitious goal of 500 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity, more than doubling the country’s current capacity. Speaking at the India Energy Week 2025 conference in New Delhi, Modi emphasized that this vision is deeply rooted in five key pillars: resource availability, a skilled workforce, economic strength, political stability, and strategic geography. He highlighted that these pillars are not just ideals but necessities for India’s growing economy and its journey toward becoming a global energy leader.

Driving Economic Growth Through Energy Transformation

India’s energy sector is closely intertwined with its economic progress. Over the past decade, the country has surged from being the world’s tenth-largest economy to the fifth-largest, and projections suggest it could rise to the third-largest by 2030. This growth is mirrored in its energy landscape. India has emerged as the world’s third-largest solar power generator and accounts for over 25% of global oil demand growth in 2025. Additionally, it has established itself as the fourth-largest refining hub globally, with plans to expand its refining capacity by 20% to strengthen its position as a regional refining powerhouse.

Balancing Sustainability and Energy Security

Modi underscored India’s unwavering commitment to sustainability, asserting that the country will not compromise on its environmental goals. He highlighted several key initiatives, including the production of 5 million metric tons of green hydrogen annually by 2030 and achieving net zero emissions in the Indian Railways. India is also on track to meet its target of a 20% ethanol blend in its fuel mix by October 2025, a move expected to significantly reduce emissions and save foreign exchange by cutting down on traditional fuel imports.

Leveraging Hydrocarbons for Energy Independence

While emphasizing renewable energy, Modi also acknowledged the importance of hydrocarbons in India’s energy mix. The country is actively exploring its hydrocarbon resources, with major discoveries and the expansion of natural gas infrastructure. These efforts aim to reduce India’s heavy reliance on imported crude, which currently meets nearly 90% of its liquid fuel demand. By boosting domestic production and increasing the share of natural gas in its energy mix, India seeks to enhance energy security and competitiveness in the global market.

Global Collaboration and Innovation

India’s energy strategy extends beyond its borders, with a strong focus on international collaboration. During its G20 presidency, India played a pivotal role in establishing the Global Biofuel Alliance, which now includes 28 nations and 12 international organizations. This initiative is transforming waste into wealth and setting up centers of excellence in India and globally. Modi expressed confidence that such partnerships will drive innovation and accelerate the adoption of clean energy technologies, positioning India as a global leader in the energy transition.

A Vision for a Sustainable and Energy-Powered Future

Modi concluded by linking India’s energy ambitions to its broader role on the global stage. He noted that experts worldwide believe the 21st century belongs to India, given its rapid growth and contributions to global development. The energy sector, he argued, plays a central role in this narrative. By balancing traditional and renewable energy sources, leveraging its strategic advantages, and fostering international partnerships, India is not only driving its own progress but also contributing to the world’s sustainable future. This vision, rooted in ambition and innovation, positions India as a key player in shaping the global energy landscape.