India’s energy sector choices—options and implications of ambitious mitigation efforts

Ritu Mathur and Swapnil Shekhar ()
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Ritu Mathur: The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI)
Swapnil Shekhar: The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI)

Climatic Change, 2020, vol. 162, issue 4, No 13, 1893-1911

Abstract: Abstract This article examines the choices that might be needed for India’s energy sector under alternative mitigation scenarios. The article draws on the CD-LINKS study—a collaborative EU project under which seven pathways based on different combinations of carbon budget (high and low) and policy implementation (early and late) were developed and examined. This study uses the MARKAL energy system model to develop these scenarios. The three broad strategies that emerge for India include decarbonisation of electricity, electrification of end-uses and improvement in energy efficiency. We conclude that by undertaking early action, India can potentially prevent carbon lock-in and leapfrog to renewables from coal in the power sector. However, early action scenarios exhibit higher cost than their delayed action counterparts. Several other barriers and challenges also need to be addressed in order to enable large-scale uptake of low-carbon technologies. India may need to come up with innovative mechanisms to ensure a smooth and just transition for the economy.

Keywords: Climate mitigation pathways; India; Energy sector; NDC; Low carbon development; Energy system modelling (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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DOI: 10.1007/s10584-020-02885-1

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