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The world’s electricity consumption has steadily increased over the past half-century, playing an essential role in the global economy. As of 2022, approximately 80% of energy consumption still relies on fossil fuel-based sources. In 2021, global energy-related carbon dioxide emissions surged by 6% to reach 36.3 billion tonnes, marking their highest level ever recorded. The primary issue with energy production is the emission of greenhouse gases, which contribute to global warming. The fossil fuel-based energy system is alarming as climate change has become an international emergency, posing a severe threat to the survival of our planet. A significant cause of this crisis is burning fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas, which release carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
Transitioning to renewable energy sources is widely regarded as one of the most effective strategies to combat climate change. The critical challenge is reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which requires an immediate shift to renewable energy. This action is necessary to reduce the energy sector’s carbon footprint, sustain mitigation efforts, and accelerate the implementation of renewable energy transitions.
To meet the 2030 targets, the pace and scale of deploying renewables and improving energy efficiency must increase significantly. The world needs to triple its renewable energy capacity to at least 11,000 GW by 2030 and double the global average annual rate of energy efficiency improvements from around 2% to over 4% each year until 2030.
Renewable Energy in India
India ranks 4th globally in renewable energy installed capacity (including large hydro), 4th in wind power capacity, and 5th in solar power capacity, according to the REN21 Renewables 2024 Global Status Report. At COP26, the country set an ambitious target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based energy by 2030.
India aims to reduce its economy’s carbon intensity by 45% by the end of the decade, achieve 50% of cumulative electric power from renewables by 2030, and reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2070. The country targets 500 GW of renewable energy installed capacity by 2030, with the current renewable energy share at around 6%.
Despite substantial progress and securing the fourth position globally in 2022, India’s dependence on fossil fuels continues to rise to meet the increasing seasonal electricity demand caused by record-hot summers. According to the Climate Action Tracker, a global independent scientific project that monitors government climate action, India’s climate targets and actions remain “Highly Insufficient,” indicating that further efforts are needed to meet these goals.
Socio-Economic Challenges of Renewable Energy in India
India’s energy transition presents severe challenges for the most marginalised communities, including Scheduled Tribes (ST), Scheduled Castes (SC), Nomads and Other Backward Classes (OBC), as well as those working irregular informal jobs. This transition could result in significant job losses and economic hardship at the household level. According to a recent study by the National Foundation for India, the coal sector’s decline is expected to impact 13 million people and leave 266 districts vulnerable as the country phases down coal use.
Evidence indicates that policies like the Land Acquisition Act are inadequate in protecting the rights and livelihoods of marginalised communities. Women, lower-caste groups, landless labourers, and small farmers face an increased risk of further marginalisation due to large infrastructure projects.
The Way Forward
There is no denying that the transition to renewable energy is the obvious solution. However, enabling this transition requires careful planning and phased implementation, supported by adequate fiscal layouts. When planning and operationalising energy transitions, several considerations must be counted carefully from the perspective of the most vulnerable communities.
First, a comprehensive vulnerability assessment is necessary to identify and evaluate the potential risks vulnerable populations face. This assessment should inform the development of a comprehensive transitional plan. Second, the livelihoods and rehabilitation of millions of people working directly and indirectly in coal and other energy sectors, particularly the most vulnerable groups such as ST, SC, OBC, indigenous, and nomadic peoples, must be considered. We must plan the economic transition and reduce the financial burden on states like Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Jharkhand.
Additionally, we must conduct a social impact assessment, focusing on the most vulnerable populations. Furthermore, environmental assessment reports should consider the local biodiversity and ecosystems that support and nurture the communities around the project, including their social life, culture, and livelihoods. This transition would be inclusive of the whole dependable populous.
The transition to renewable energy must be carefully planned and implemented with a focus on protecting the rights and livelihoods of vulnerable communities. By conducting comprehensive assessments and considering the unique needs of these populations, we can ensure an inclusive sustainable energy transition.
