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A Ministerial Round Table Conference convened on April 24, 2024, amid the ongoing 26th edition of the World Energy Congress (WEC) in Rotterdam, Netherlands. The focal point of the discussion was the transformative impact of the COP28 UN Climate Change Conference held in Dubai, heralded as a game-changer in global climate action. Key topics addressed during the Round Table Conference encompassed energy innovation, collaboration strategies, and navigating the evolving energy trilemma trade-offs.
Prominent attendees included H.E. Rob Jetten, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Climate and Energy Policy of the Netherlands, along with Shri Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary of the Ministry of Power, representing the Government of India. Senior representatives from various countries and organizations also participated in the dialogue.
During the conference, Secretary Agarwal underscored India’s pivotal role in shaping COP28 discussions, highlighting the nation’s commitment to driving policy advancements in the global energy transition. He emphasized the significance of the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration as a testament to India’s efforts in fostering convergence towards COP28’s renewable energy and energy efficiency objectives.
Secretary Agarwal outlined India’s ambitious targets, including doubling the global rate of energy efficiency improvements annually and tripling global renewable capacity by 2030, as outlined in COP28 commitments. He commended India’s Mission LiFE for advocating sustainable lifestyles, echoing the consensus reached at COP27 and G20 forums. Moreover, the Secretary highlighted COP28’s recognition of transitioning towards carbon neutrality, with a focus on Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) and green hydrogen initiatives.
The complexity of managing energy transitions was also emphasized, with Secretary Agarwal stressing the importance of inclusive approaches. He highlighted the role of technology deployment and cooperation, citing tools like the Revamped India Energy Security Scenarios (IESS) 2047 dashboard as instrumental in informed decision-making.
Moreover, initiatives such as the PM-KUSUM Scheme and solar rooftop programs were lauded for promoting environmental sustainability and fostering job creation. The Secretary also advocated for support to developing countries in accessing financing and clean technologies to effectively navigate the energy trilemma.
The 26th World Energy Congress, themed ‘Redesigning Energy for People and Planet,’ marks a significant milestone in global energy leadership. With a focus on clean and inclusive energy transitions, the Congress aims to explore the role of connected energy societies in driving forward global energy transformations in an increasingly unpredictable and fast-changing world.
As a country member of the World Energy Council, WEC India, operating under the patronage of the Ministry of Power, Government of India, plays a pivotal role in promoting sustainable energy supply and usage. Established in 1924, WEC India continues to contribute to global energy discourse and initiatives, supported by various ministries including Coal, New & Renewable Energy, Petroleum & Natural Gas, and External Affairs. |
