India has been re-elected as the president of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), a global coalition of solar-rich countries aimed at promoting the use of solar energy and addressing climate change. The decision was made during the fourth meeting of the ISA Assembly held in New Delhi. This marks a significant moment in India’s growing leadership role in the global renewable energy transition.
India’s re-election to the presidency underscores its strong commitment to clean energy and international cooperation in combating climate change. The country has been a vocal advocate for renewable energy and has played a pivotal role in advancing solar energy, both domestically and on the international stage. The re-election also highlights India’s leadership in fostering global partnerships for a cleaner, greener energy future
India’s leadership of the ISA began in 2018, and under its stewardship, the organization has made significant strides in promoting solar energy across the world. The ISA was established in 2015 in the wake of the COP21 Paris Agreement, with the goal of increasing the use of solar power by facilitating collaboration among solar-rich countries. It aims to promote the development and deployment of solar energy technologies to help countries achieve energy security, improve energy access, and address climate change.
The re-election of India as ISA president comes at a critical time, as the world grapples with the urgent need to transition away from fossil fuels to cleaner sources of energy. Solar power, given its renewable nature and abundance in many parts of the world, is central to this transformation. India’s leadership has been key in pushing forward initiatives that support solar infrastructure, policy development, financing mechanisms, and technology transfer among member nations
In his address at the ISA Assembly, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed pride in India’s role as the ISA’s president and highlighted the country’s achievements in the solar sector. He noted that India had set an ambitious target of achieving 500 gigawatts (GW) of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030, including 280 GW of solar power, which is expected to help India achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2070.
The Prime Minister emphasized that India is committed to further enhancing international cooperation in the renewable energy sector and reiterated India’s determination to contribute to the global effort against climate change. He also called on countries to prioritize solar energy and promote sustainable growth by investing in clean energy.
Under India’s presidency, the ISA has significantly expanded its membership, now comprising over 120 countries from across the globe. These countries are united by a shared vision of increasing the use of solar power, not just as an energy source, but as a tool to address socio-economic challenges, especially in the Global South. By leveraging solar power, nations can ensure better energy access, create jobs, and improve energy resilience while reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
It’s leadership within the ISA also aligns with its broader energy policy, which aims to enhance the country’s energy security, reduce carbon emissions, and ensure a sustainable energy future. As the world transitions to cleaner energy, it’s position as a leader in solar energy will continue to shape global discussions on energy policy, sustainability, and climate action.
The re-election of the nation as the ISA President highlights its growing influence in the renewable energy sector and its vision for a clean, solar-powered future. As the world accelerates its shift toward cleaner energy, it’s role in shaping the future of global solar energy has never been more important.
