The pandemic has led to energy shocks in several parts of the world and emerging anxieties in the energy transition. Oil prices are at all-time lows, power demand has reduced, execution of renewable energy projects has come to a standstill, and risks around energy supply chains have increased. Yet, India remains at the centre of the global energy transition and will continue to meet rising demand while lowering carbon emissions. In 2010, India had less than 20 megawatts (MW) of solar. Today, its renewables capacity has crossed 80,000 MW and it offers one of the largest renewables opportunities that follows competitive market principles. At the same time, India’s future energy demand will be growing with a significant requirement for oil, gas, and coal. India needs to adjust to the step changes it will have to make in dealing with the global energy markets and in building institutional structures. Forward-looking policies will also be needed for urbanising efficiently and for managing the associated stresses in energy, food, water, and land.

This virtual tête-à-tête with Shri Suresh Prabhu (Rajya Sabha MP and Prime Minister's Sherpa for G20 and G7) will focus on energy pathways towards building a resilient and equitable energy system after the pandemic and how India could inspire the energy transition across other emerging economies. The conversation will be led by Dr Arunabha Ghosh, CEO, CEEW.