Those looking for a bright spot in the global warming picture might want to pay closer attention to India.
For several years, demand for electricity in the world’s second-most populous country has trailed forecasts, data compiled by India’s Central Electricity Authority show.
While the reasons for the mismatch are complex, the gap raises the prospect that India won’t need to burn as much coal to meet its future energy needs. Rather, much of it is going to come from solar panels and lanterns, both of which can be supplied off grid.
“A 15 percent improvement in the already committed goals, even at a constant GDP growth rate, would cut absolute emissions equivalent to the entire emissions of major economies like Canada or Germany within a 2030 timeline,” said Vivek Adhia, head of business engagement at WRI in India.