The Ministerial Round Table Conference, held on April 24 at the ongoing 26th edition of World Energy Congress in Rotterdam, Netherlands, discussed energy innovation and collaboration, and implications in managing the evolving energy trilemma trade-offs.

Further, it discussed how the COP28 UN Climate Change Conference in Dubai was a game changer.

During the conference, the Union Power Secretary, Pankaj Agarwal highlighted India’s pivotal role in COP28, emphasizing its significance as a policy catalyst in global energy transition.

Secretary Agarwal pointed out that the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration is a testimony of India’s efforts for building convergence towards the COP28 renewable energy and energy efficiency commitments of:

a) doubling the global rate of energy efficiency improvements every year and;

b) of tripling the global renewable capacity by 2030.

He also underscored India’s Mission LiFE, lauded for advocating sustainable lifestyles, echoing global consensus at COP27 and G20 forums. Further, he stressed COP28’s recognition of transitioning towards carbon neutrality, with emphasis on Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS) and green hydrogen.

He also emphasised that balancing energy security, access, and sustainability remains crucial with initiatives like the PM-KUSUM scheme and solar rooftop programs promoting environmental sustainability and job creation. He added that the Indian carbon market will further advance sustainability efforts, h

The Secretary also told the Conference participants that developing countries require support in accessing financing and clean technologies, to help them navigate the energy trilemma effectively.