Background

The year 2022 was a watershed moment for India’s renewable energy sector, and it boded well for the country’s move to clean transition. This is despite the uncertain times, unexpected weather, such as the nationwide catastrophic heat waves, and rising energy prices.

In terms of capacity for installed renewable energy, India is now ranked fourth worldwide (including large hydro). Also, it comes in fourth for both solar and wind energy. Given its goals for 2030 and its goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2070 in accordance with the Panchamrit Principle forIndia’s Climate Action, COP-26, India’s commitment to combating climate change is remarkable and calls for a road map. Yet, it will not be practical to implement the same strategy across all states and to cascade the same energy reform programme across multiple states. Depending on the geographical complexity of each state, developing an effective energy transition strategy necessitates in-depth analysis and strategic decision-making.

The paradigm shift in the clean energy transition has twin-fold objectives : ensuring affordable and reliable energy for all, and reducing reliance on fossil-based energy by accelerating the clean energy transition. Though the central and state government has implemented significant reforms in the energy sector, much more work remains to be done to achieve these goals. This necessitates a comprehensive roadmap and the active participation of the states.

In light of the aforementioned situation, Jharkhand has made a historic decision that makes it the first state in the nation to adopt a policy direction through a “Task Force on Sustainable Just Transition” in order to work towards a net-zero scenario and sustainable development objectives. Given the state’s concerns about resource depletion, reliance on fossil fuel ecosystems, and susceptibility to climate change, facilitating a successful transition to green energy is regarded as essential.