By Vaibhav Kaushik
India stands at a crucial point in its quest for sustainable growth, where the choices we make today will shape the trajectory of our future. With a burgeoning population of 1.4 billion, India is on the fast track to becoming the world’s largest economy. However, we are grappling with pressing challenges, including but not limited to severe air pollution, energy insecurity, groundwater depletion, and rapid urbanization. The need for a sustainable future is evident, and the good news is that we can achieve this by reshaping our approach to development. If we build our energy systems, farms, cities, and infrastructure strategically and backed by technology, we will not have to choose from continued economic growth and environment.
The Urban Challenge
India is experiencing a major transformation. Just over a decade ago, India’s urban population in 2011 was 377.1 million. Even after the massive COVID-19-led migration, the population is back on track with over 500 million people living in the cities, and it is further expected to reach 635 million by the end of 2035.
This mammoth population influx will put additional pressure on the already stretched urban infrastructure – with demand for more efficient, clean, reliable and safe service. There will be an urgency of ensuring development that sustains the growing demands, especially as the current situation is riddled with issues, with severe air pollution topping the list. By reforming land regulations, expanding sustainable infrastructure and strengthening local governance, we can unleash India’s urban potential. However, before diving deeper into the umbrella problems, our focus should be on the energy sector that is the biggest contributor to diminishing the quality of life of the urban dwellers.
Transition to Clean Energy Sources
India’s energy consumption has almost doubled since 2000, with 80% of demand still being met by coal, oil and solid biomass, according to India Energy Outlook 2021 by International Energy Agency. India’s growing energy consumption must be addressed through efficiency and renewable energy integration, and to ensure that India is taking proactive steps. The government has committed to clean energy under the ‘Energy Conservation Amendment Bill, 2022’ with an aim to achieve 500GW of non-fossil, including 450GW Renewable Energy capacity by 2030.
The adoption of solar and wind power is a game-changer. India ranks as the 4th largest solar and wind power capacity globally, according to the Renewables 2022 Global Status Report by REN21. Major Indian companies, like Adani and Tata, are embracing renewables, setting the stage for a low-carbon energy revolution. Additionally, India’s railway system, one of the largest consumers of electricity, is making strides in transitioning to cleaner energy sources. India’s infrastructure development offers a unique opportunity to incorporate energy-efficient measures, resulting in economic and environmental benefits.
Smart Urbanization
The urbanization in India is mainly due to the migration of people for better opportunities, and this growth is further expected to continue in the years to come. The government must step up its game in order to catch up with the upward influx of population. Innovative measures, such as promoting electric vehicles, improving air quality monitoring, comprehensive urban planning with extensive road network, and urban transport are essential to steer India’s urban centers toward a more sustainable future, and unlocking economic opportunities.
In 2015, the Indian government launched the Smart Cities Mission with the vision to transform 100 cities into urban ecosystems, but the progress came to a halt due to the pandemic. However, the strides are being made – with big cities averaging an 80% completion rate and smaller cities at around 66% towards a robust infrastructure and sustainable environment.
Commitment to a Sustainable Future
India faces monumental challenges due to its sheer size and rapid growth, and its pursuit of a sustainable future demands a focused commitment to clean energy, smart urbanization, and innovation. By aligning energy-intensive sectors with energy-efficient practices, exploring carbon offset mechanisms, and transitioning to renewable energy sources, India can further advance its journey toward a cleaner and sustainable energy future. Moreover, the government has set a target of EV30@2030 – 30% of newly registered private cars, 40% of buses, 70% of commercial cars, and 80% of 2-wheelers and 3-wheelers will be electric by 2030 and to ensure that has introduced EV policies such as Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles in India (FAME India) Scheme, Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for the Automotive Sector, etc. to drive green revolution for sustainable living.
This proactive approach, balancing economic growth and environment while addressing the challenges posed by rapid urbanization and environmental degradation, combined with the government’s ambitious clean energy targets, will hold the key to shaping a more sustainable and prosperous future for the nation.
(The author is Vaibhav Kaushik, CEO & Co-founder, Nawgati, and the views expressed in this article are his own)
