Abstract
Globally there is a greater commitment among national governments towards the achievement of the global 2°C temperature stabilisation target and doubling the rate of energy intensity improvement. India’s energy demand and energy imports have risen sizably over the past two decades. In 2014, India imported 83 % of its oil, 29 % of coal and 68 % of natural gas demand. Improving energy efficiency (EE) is identified among the prominent options in India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) communicated to the Paris Agreement. EE, other than mitigating carbon emissions, also contributes to improving energy security and air quality. EE measures are hence pervasive as they anchor efficient and cleaner technologies in the supply-chain covering production, distribution and consumption. This paper analyses role of EE technologies, policies and measures in India under global carbon emissions mitigation scenarios that target temperature stabilisation ‘well-below 2°C’. The analysis is carried out using ANSWER-MARKAL, an energy system optimisation model. The analysis focuses on high impact opportunities including the energy intensive industry sectors (electricity supply, industry and transport). The results are reported for medium-term (year - 2030) and long-term (year - 2050). The analysis concludes that energy efficiency measures reduce CO2 emissions, promote cleaner production by reducing fossil-based energy and deliver benefits of energy security and improved air quality. The paper finally highlights the elements of the policy roadmap for transitions towards clean and energy efficient technology future in the medium and long-term.
