India Accelerates Its Clean Energy Transformation

India has emerged as an important participant in the global clean energy transition. The country has adopted a multi-pronged strategy encompassing renewable energy, green hydrogen, nuclear energy, and emerging clean energy technologies.

World Hydrogen Energy Summit: Key Highlights

In a recent address at the World Hydrogen Energy Summit held in New Delhi, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh reaffirmed India’s commitment to balancing energy security, sustainability, and economic growth.

The summit, held at the NDMC Convention Centre, brought together policymakers, industry leaders, scientists, and energy experts from across the world to discuss the future of energy systems and global decarbonisation efforts. The event provided a platform for sharing ideas and initiatives aimed at accelerating the clean energy transition.

India’s Multi-Dimensional Clean Energy Strategy

Dr. Singh highlighted that India’s clean energy strategy is comprehensive and multidimensional, integrating renewable energy expansion, nuclear power development, green hydrogen production, and investment in emerging technologies within a unified framework.

Green Hydrogen Mission Gains Momentum

A key pillar of this transition is the National Green Hydrogen Mission, launched with an outlay of ₹19,744 crore. The initiative aims to position India among the world’s leading producers and exporters of green hydrogen.

According to the Minister, green hydrogen is expected to play a transformative role in decarbonising hard-to-abate sectors such as:

• Steel
• Cement
• Heavy industry

Efforts are also underway to reduce production costs through:

• Domestic manufacturing of electrolyzers
• Innovation-driven research

India’s Expanding Nuclear Energy Programme

India is also significantly expanding its nuclear energy ambitions. The recently announced Nuclear Energy Mission envisages the development of approximately 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047, representing one of the most ambitious long-term nuclear expansion plans globally.

Dr. Singh noted that India has entered a new phase of nuclear development driven by indigenous technology and scientific advancement.

Development of Small Modular Reactors

The development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) is a key component of this strategy, with the Government aiming to operationalise multiple units over the coming decade. Several initiatives are currently under development:

• Bharat Small Modular Reactor (BSMR)
• Bharat Small Reactor (BSR)
• Advanced reactor concepts linked to hydrogen production

These technologies are expected to:

• Support decentralised energy generation
• Improve energy access
• Contribute to the development of hydrogen ecosystems

Private Sector Participation in Nuclear Energy

The Government is also exploring policy measures to facilitate greater private sector participation in the nuclear energy value chain while maintaining the existing regulatory and safety framework governing atomic energy.

These efforts are expected to create opportunities for start-ups, MSMEs, and private enterprises to contribute to India’s clean energy ecosystem.

Economic Opportunities from Clean Energy

Clean energy initiatives have also generated significant economic opportunities beyond traditional infrastructure sectors. Industries that continue to expand include:

• Electric vehicles
• Battery recycling
• Grid management
• Renewable energy manufacturing
• Biofuels

These sectors are creating employment opportunities and driving innovation. The Government is additionally promoting circular economy initiatives, including projects focused on converting agricultural waste and used cooking oil into sustainable fuels and other value-added products.

Energy Blend Investments (Long-Term Goal)

Alongside investments in clean energy, India continues to invest in conventional energy sources to support energy security during the transition period. Key investment plans include:

• Approximately USD 100 billion in investments across the oil and gas sector, including offshore exploration and production activities
• Increasing the share of natural gas in India’s energy mix from around 10% to 15%

India’s Role in the Global Energy Transition

India is increasingly being recognised as a major contributor to the global transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy systems. Supported by government policy, technological innovation, and collaboration across sectors, India’s integrated energy strategy seeks to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability.

The approach may also offer valuable lessons for other developing economies pursuing long-term energy transitions.

Conclusion

India’s clean energy transition reflects a balanced strategy that combines sustainability, energy security, technological innovation, and economic development. Through initiatives such as the National Green Hydrogen Mission and the Nuclear Energy Mission, the country is laying the foundation for a diversified and resilient energy system capable of meeting future demand while reducing carbon emissions.

Supported by indigenous innovation, increased private sector participation, and continued investment in research and development, India is positioning itself as a significant player in the global clean energy landscape.

Last Updated on 16 June, 2026