Clean Energy Transition in the Transport Sector of India: Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract

As India being one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, faces the dual challenges of having rapid urbanization and activities for economic development at the one hand while efforts to minimize environmental impacts on the other. The Indian road transport sector is a major contributor of energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Transitioning from dirty fuels to clean energy in the transport sector is crucial for India to meet its climate goals under the Paris Agreement and to ensure long-term sustainable growth. This research paper examines India's transport sector focusing mainly on energy consumption, emissions profiles, and the policy landscape for emission reduction. It highlights the heavy reliance of India on fossil fuels in the road transport sector, particularly petroleum products, which exacerbates air pollution and GHG emissions while posing energy security risks. Despite government initiatives like the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme and the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP), the penetration of clean energy technologies in the transport sector remains limited. Technological advancements in electric vehicles (EVs), transition from petroleum to biofuels, and hydrogen fuel cells present significant potential to reduce the sector's carbon footprint. The study also explores the role of alternative fuel use innovations in public transport, such as electric buses and expanded metro systems, in promoting sustainable urban mobility. In conclusion, while India has made strides towards a clean energy transition in the transport sector, considerable challenges still remain. However, with the right mix of policies, investments, and innovations, India can lead in the global effort to decarbonize transportation, enhancing energy security, promoting sustainable growth, and improving environmental outcomes.