India’s energy needs and low carbon options

India’s aspiration for economic growth has consequences for energy growth and CO2 emissions. This paper examines India’s need for energy with 20 year perspectives. From an earlier paper by K. Parikh et al. (2009), demand scenario are examined from the supply perspectives ranging from coal, hydrocarbon, nuclear, hydrogen, hydro and other renewable etc. None of these are substantial and India will have to rely on imports. The need for energy has to be reduced by a drive for energy efficiency and renewable energy. Government programmes for the above are also commented upon. Though India’s CO2 emissions are unlikely to grow very much due to energy scarcity and energy mix the article examines the potential to reduce CO2 emissions and the associated costs involved in various options. It finds that 30% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030 is feasible but would involve additional costs. The most promising option is to reduce energy demand by various measures to increase energy use efficiency in production and consumption.

► With 8% GDP growth rate, import dependence for energy in 2030 will be 29% to 59%.
► By 2031 due to better energy efficiency and renewable use, CO2 emissions fall by 35%.
► Improved efficiency and mass transport use will reduce oil demand by 25% in 2030.
► Energy efficiency and conservation will ease coal demand by 38% in 2030.
► Energy intensity can be reduced by 20% with commercially viable technologies.