India could meet a quarter of its energy needs through renewable energy sources by 2030, with biofuels and solar playing key roles, according to a new report by the International Renewable Energy Agency.
The report predicted that biofuels could account for 62% of India’s renewable energy mix, followed by solar at 16%, wind at 14% and hyrdo at 7%.
India is currently heavily reliant on coal for its energy needs. If a “business-as-usual” approach continues, the report warned the proportion of generation from renewables could slip from about 17% currently to 12% by 2030.
India, however, has set a target to install 175GW of renewable energy capacity by 2022, though the path beyond that date remains unclear.
Rapid growth in electricity demand will require massive investment in power-generation capacity and related infrastructure, giving policymakers an opportunity to deploy more renewable energy.
“With one of the world’s largest and most ambitious renewable energy programmes, India is taking a leading role in the energy transformation both regionally and globally,” IRENA director-general Adnan Z. Amin said.
“India possesses a wealth of renewable resources, particularly for solar and bioenergy development, which can help meet growing energy demand, power economic growth and improve energy access, as well as boost overall energy security.”
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