In a government statement released on Sunday, it was announced that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to participate in the upcoming United Nations Climate Conference (COP28) in Dubai. The two-day visit is slated for November 30 to December 1, underlining India's dedication to addressing the critical issue of climate change.
The statement highlighted the significance of climate change as a key priority during India's G20 Presidency, noting that COP-28 presents an opportunity to build upon the successes achieved in this regard. Notably, during India's recent G20 Presidency, global leaders reached a consensus to strive for a threefold increase in renewable energy capacity by 2030 and acknowledged the necessity to phase down unabated coal power. However, concrete climate goals were not explicitly outlined.
As the U.N. climate conference approaches, Reuters reported last week that France, with support from the United States, intends to propose a cessation of private financing for coal-based power plants. This move, if pursued, could potentially lead to divisions within the group, especially among major emerging nations like India, which continue to rely on coal to sustain rapid economic growth.
India presently derives about 73% of its electricity from coal, despite making strides in expanding non-fossil fuel capacity to encompass 44% of its overall installed power generation capacity. The differing energy needs and priorities among nations participating in COP28 are expected to be a focal point of discussions during the conference.
