Manohar Lal Highlights India’s Energy Security & Regulatory Reforms at G20 Meeting

New Delhi, Sep 16 (KNN) India’s energy security, clean energy expansion and regulatory reforms were discussed at the G20 Energy Abundance Working Group meetings in Houston, where Union Minister for Power and Housing & Urban Affairs Manohar Lal highlighted developments in the country’s power sector and emerging energy technologies.

Energy Security and Clean Energy

Addressing the working group’s sessions on September 15, Lal highlighted India’s installed power capacity of 552 GW and a non-fossil fuel share of more than 50 per cent. He also cited progress in solar power, energy storage, nuclear energy and access to clean cooking.

Under the pillar on energy security and affordable baseload power, the Minister emphasised technology-neutral and inclusive energy pathways. He also highlighted India’s international cooperation through the International Solar Alliance, One Sun One World One Grid and the Global Biofuels Alliance.

Regulatory and Permitting Reforms

The discussions also focused on permitting and regulatory efficiency. Lal outlined India’s use of digital platforms, including the National Single Window System, PARIVESH and PM Gati Shakti, to streamline approvals and improve regulatory predictability.

He called for greater G20 cooperation in capacity building and regulatory modernisation, with efficient permitting identified as an important factor in timely infrastructure development.

Discussions with US Energy Secretary

On the sidelines of the meeting, Lal held bilateral discussions with US Energy Secretary Chris Wright on India’s power infrastructure requirements for artificial intelligence, high-performance computing and data centres. The discussions also covered India’s nuclear expansion plans.

Both sides discussed cooperation under the US-India Energy Security Partnership, including areas such as clean energy, resilient infrastructure and emerging technologies.

Engagement with Canada

Lal also met Canada’s Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Corey Hogan. The two sides discussed cooperation in energy efficiency, low-emission technologies and offshore exploration under the Samundra Manthan scheme.

The Minister also encouraged Canadian companies to participate in India’s exploration and production sector and explore opportunities in emerging energy technologies.

(KNN Bureau)