At the COP29 conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, Gujarat's Energy Minister Kanu Desai announced the state's ambition to lead India's clean energy transition. Desai highlighted Gujarat's efforts to position itself as a global hub for sustainable growth, particularly in emerging sectors like green hydrogen, and emphasised the state's proactive approach to renewable energy innovation.

Gujarat has set ambitious renewable energy goals, with plans to achieve energy self-reliance by 2047, the centenary of India's independence. Desai spoke about the state's ‘Mission 100 GW’, an initiative aimed at significantly boosting Gujarat’s renewable energy capacity and establishing it as a key player in India's clean energy transition. He stressed the importance of fostering a business-friendly environment, attracting investments, and encouraging innovation to drive the mission forward.

Desai also discussed Gujarat's substantial offshore wind energy potential, estimated at 35-40 GW, during a bilateral meeting with representatives from the Climate Investment Fund (CIF) and other international stakeholders. He noted that global companies are partnering with Gujarat to invest in offshore wind projects.

Additionally, the Gujarat delegation engaged with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) at COP29, focusing on strategies to achieve zero emissions by 2047 through green technologies while ensuring a fair and inclusive energy transition. (ET)