India’s per capita CO₂ emissions among the lowest globally as renewable capacity surges
Source: IANS / ET Energyworld (March 2025)
Context
India, now the 5th largest economy in the world, continues to maintain one of the lowest per capita CO₂ emissions globally even as it undergoes rapid industrialisation and energy expansion. The country’s transition toward renewables is accelerating, marking strong progress toward its 500 GW renewable energy capacity target by 2030.
Key Highlights
1. Low Per Capita Emissions
- Source: Hinrich–IMD Sustainable Trade Index (STI)
- India’s Per Capita CO₂ Emissions: 1.9 tonnes
- Comparative Figures:
- Canada – 15.2
- Australia – 15.1
- USA – 14.4
- Russia – 13.3
- South Korea – 12.3
- China – 8.9
- Japan – 8.6
➡️ Inference: Despite being a fast-growing economy, India’s emissions are nearly 8 times lower than those of developed nations.
2. About the Hinrich–IMD Sustainable Trade Index (STI)
- Coverage: 30 global trading economies
- Indicators: 72 parameters across economic, societal, and environmental pillars
- Purpose: Measures the ability of economies to engage in sustainable and responsible trade.
- Use: Provides insights for policymakers and businesses to balance trade competitiveness with environmental and social outcomes.
3. India’s Renewable Energy Growth (as per MNRE, Dec 2024)
| Parameter | 2023 | 2024 | Growth (%) |
|---|
| Total Renewable Energy Capacity | 180.80 GW | 209.44 GW | +15.84% |
| Solar Power | 73.32 GW | 97.86 GW | +33.47% |
| Wind Energy | 44.74 GW | 48.16 GW | +7.64% |
| Bioenergy | 10.84 GW | 11.35 GW | +4.70% |
| Small Hydro | 4.99 GW | 5.10 GW | +2.20% |
| Total Capacity Added (2024) | — | 28.64 GW | +119.46% (YoY) |
➡️ Solar energy continues to be the dominant contributor, accounting for over 85% of total additions in 2024.
4. Policy & Institutional Support
- Target: 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030.
- Nodal Ministry: Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
- Vision: PM Narendra Modi’s Panchamrit Goalsannounced at COP26:
- Achieve 500 GW non-fossil energy capacity by 2030
- Meet 50% energy needs through renewables
- Reduce carbon intensity of GDP by 45%
- Achieve Net Zero by 2070
5. State-Wise Solar Leaders
- Top 3 States: Rajasthan, Gujarat, Karnataka
- Top 10 States: Account for 94% of total solar capacity additions.
- These states benefit from high solar irradiance, proactive state policies, and improved grid infrastructure.
Significance
- Environmental: Strengthens India’s global position as a responsible climate leader.
- Economic: Encourages green investments and job creation in renewables.
- Strategic: Reduces dependence on fossil fuel imports and enhances energy security.
- Diplomatic: Enhances India’s credibility in international climate negotiations (e.g., COP30).
Updated - Mar 10, 2025 at 08:40 AM | Energy World