India's Power Sector: Solar Surge Clouds Carbon Footprint

In a significant turn of events, carbon dioxide emissions from India's power sector recorded a 1 per cent decline in the first half of 2025, making it only the second drop in the last five decades, according to a report by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA).

India, accounting for about two-fifths of the global energy sector emissions growth since 2019, has sustained this decrease, despite having a per capita emission well below the global average, contributing 8 per cent to global emissions with 18 per cent of the world's population.

The shift towards renewable energy is notable, with new solar and wind projects leading to substantial gains in energy generation, diminishing reliance on fossil fuels.

The CREA further indicates that this decline is facilitated by decreased industrial activity and favorable weather, which reduced demand for cooling systems.

The renewable energy sector, described as experiencing rapid growth, saw a remarkable increase in capacity with solar power projects leading the charge.