Archive · 29 Oct 2025
India's Coal Use Risks Undermining New Climate Commitments
India is promising to clean up its air and reduce pollution by 2035, like making a new promise to the world about how it will fight climate change.
However, India is also using more coal, which makes pollution, and this could make it harder to keep that promise.
They are working on new plans and even a system to trade 'carbon credits' to help industries be cleaner.
Experts are watching closely, with some suggesting India should focus more on reducing overall emissions and setting a clear year for when its emissions will stop growing.
While India has made good progress in clean energy, its continued reliance on coal raises concerns about meeting its climate goals.
India plans to submit its updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) to the UNFCCC by COP 30, outlining emission reduction targets for the period ending 2035.
The country's increasing use of coal as a primary fuel for development poses a significant challenge to its new climate commitments and emission reduction goals.
India is set to launch a Carbon Credit Trading Scheme next year, aiming to accelerate decarbonization across its industries.
Despite significant growth in renewable energy capacity, India's coal-based power generation is projected to increase substantially.
Experts recommend India set more ambitious emission intensity targets, define a clear emissions peak year, and maintain clean power additions to meet its net-zero ambitions.
- Who
- India, policymakers, and climate think tanks (CEEW, IEEFA, CREA)
- What
- India is preparing a new climate pledge (NDC) by COP 30, but its increasing reliance on coal may hinder its emission reduction goals, despite plans for a 2035 roadmap and a Carbon Credit Trading Scheme.
- When
- The new NDC is due by COP 30 (November 2024), covering the period up to 2035. Discussions and reforms are ongoing.
- Where
- India, with international implications for global climate commitments.
- Why
- To meet international climate commitments under the Paris Agreement, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and transition towards cleaner energy, while balancing development needs with coal usage.
- Upcoming NDC Submission
- By COP 30 in Brazil
- NDC Period
- Ending 2035
- Current NDC Expiration
- 2030
- Estimated Coal Capacity Addition
- Up to 28 GW by FY2032, with current plans exceeding 80 GW
- India's 2024 Energy CO2 Emissions
- 3 billion tonnes, 8% of global emissions
- India's 2024 Emission Growth
- 4%
- India's 2030 Emission Intensity Target (vs 2005)
- 45% reduction
- India's 2030 Non-Fossil Fuel Capacity Target
- 50% of installed capacity
Sources
India on track to peak coal power emissions by 2030 as clean energy soars: CREA
Clean energy surge could see India’s coal emissions peak before 2030: CREA report
Top 4 Wind Energy Companies Powering India’s Renewable Future
India plans green energy partnerships with Singapore, Southeast Asia
