The World Energy Transitions Outlook 2022 released by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) at the Berlin Energy Transition Dialogue is an essential document about the future of global energy usage. This article outlines the predictions, priorities, and insights of the Outlook and discusses India’s progress in the energy transition.
Understanding Energy Transition
Energy transition refers to the global shift from fossil-based energy systems such as oil, natural gas, and coal, to renewable energy sources like wind and solar, and lithium-ion batteries. This trend aims to mitigate the impacts of climate change and create a more sustainable energy future.
The Purpose of the Outlook
The Outlook identifies priority areas and actions needed to achieve net-zero emissions by mid-century, focusing on technologies available today. It presents a detailed analysis of two strategies for decarbonising end-use sectors: electrification and bioenergy. Additionally, it reviews the socio-economic impacts of the 1.5°C pathway under the Paris Agreement and suggests ways to speed up progress towards universal access to clean energy.
Key Findings from the Outlook
According to the Outlook, our current pace of transition to renewable energy is insufficient. It predicts that global renewable power must triple by 2030, as recommended by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. It also highlights the need to replace coal power and phase out fossil fuel assets. Finally, the Outlook emphasises the role of electrification and efficiency as key drivers of the transition, enabled by renewables, hydrogen, and sustainable biomass.
Recommendations Derived from the Outlook
The Outlook recommends short-term interventions addressing the current energy crisis, coupled with a steadfast focus on the mid- and long-term goals of the energy transition. It calls for a massive scale-up of renewables across all sectors, from the current 14% of total energy to around 40% in 2030. The most significant energy consumers and carbon emitters are urged to implement the most ambitious plans by 2030. Furthermore, it underlines the need for countries to set more ambitious targets and measures to ramp up energy efficiency and deployment of renewables.
About International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)
IRENA is an intergovernmental organisation founded in Bonn, Germany, in January 2009. With its headquarters situated in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, IRENA has 167 member countries with India as the 77th Founding Member. The agency’s main focus is to promote the widespread adoption and sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy.
India’s Progress in the Energy Transition
India has made substantial strides in the energy transition, with an installed Renewable Energy (RE) capacity of 150.54 GW as of November 2021. It is the world’s fourth-largest wind power capacity holder, bringing the total non-fossil-based installed energy capacity to 157.32 GW, representing 40.1% of the total installed electricity capacity of 392.01 GW. To further this progress, at COP26, India announced a five-point action plan, including reducing emissions to 50% by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2070.
India’s Rank on the Global Energy Transition Index
On the Global Energy Transition Index (ETI) 2021, a benchmark by the World Economic Forum, India ranked 87 out of 110 countries. This index assesses countries based on their ability and readiness to balance energy security and access with environmental sustainability and affordability.
India’s Initiatives for Energy Transition
India has launched several initiatives and schemes to accelerate its energy transition, including the International Solar Alliance One Sun, One World, One Grid (OSOWOG), National Solar Mission, Pradham Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyaan (PM KUSUM), Solar Park Scheme and Grid Connected Solar Rooftop Scheme, and National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy 2018. It is also exploring hydrogen-based fuel cells vehicles and developing a Green Energy Corridor (GEC) for the more effective distribution and consumption of renewable energy.