INDIA: Energy Trends -

Kolkata: 8 July 2008
Today the Centre for Social Markets (CSM) released a report examining seven renewable energy trends in India that could accelerate the country's transition to a more sustainable, low-carbon future. Launched just ahead of the *2nd India Cleantech Forum* in Delhi, the report, entitled *'INDIA: Renewable Energy Trends'*, forms part of a Discussion Paper series published under the banner of CSM's '*Climate Challenge India'* campaign.

At a time when the world is seized with the challenge of dealing simultaneously with climate change, energy security and a global economic downturn, the report provides a hopeful signpost to a future where renewable energy could play a significant role in providing solutions. Conducted by American scholar, *Alexis Ringwald*, during a Fulbright research scholarship, the research provides a detailed and original account of seven renewable energy trends in India, ranging from the dramatic rise in renewable energy investment to the leadership role taken by a number of Indian states.

Commenting on the report, CSM chief executive, *Malini Mehra*, said: "We are witnessing the emergence of a renaissance in renewable energy which should give us all hope. The trends outlined in this paper tell an exciting story of just how different dimensions of the energy, economy, environment and employment challenge are finally coming together to offer solutions that amount to more than just the sum of their parts. If the potential they represent is seized with the intensity and commitment required, the future for India will be green and bright."

In his endorsement of the research, *Dr RK Pachauri*, Director- General, TERI & Chairman, Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), said it was: "A comprehensive assessment of the renewable energy challenge and opportunity for India, representing a high quality piece of research and insightful investigation. … a very laudable effort in understanding the complexities of the Indian energy sector, the challenge of accelerated growth and development faced by the country, and the rationale and logic for bringing about a transition towards more energy efficient and renewable energy based solutions."

In his Foreword to the report, *N. Subramanian*, Secretary, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, said: "New policy initiatives and the development of viable business models in the private sector have spurred growth during the last two years. India has reached a stage where it is admitted by all that renewable energy is one of the most essential and sustainable solutions."

The report has been published with the support of the *United States Educational Foundation in India (USEFI)* and can be downloaded directly from CSM's website at: http://www.csmworld.org

Print versions will be available shortly and can also be ordered directly on-line from CSM's website.

For more information on CSM's *Climate Challenge India* initiative, please visit:http://www.climatechallengeindia.org
For details on the 2nd India Cleantech Forum, please visit: http:// www.cleantechforum.com

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Ryan Baidya
California Takshila University