Dubai - In a surprising move, both India and China abstained from a pledge taken by 118 nations at the annual UN climate summit (COP28) to triple global renewable energy generation capacity and double energy efficiency by 2030. The abstention aligns with India's stance of prioritizing coal-fired power plants to ensure power availability for economic growth.

India, known as one of the largest consumers of coal worldwide, has made significant progress in boosting its non-fossil fuel energy generation capacity, including solar, wind, and hydel. However, the country is unwilling to commit to massive cuts in reliance on coal power plants, which continue to be the main source of electricity generation. India's concern lies in the rising demand for power and the need to fuel its economic growth without compromising power availability.

The Indian government has stated that it will not be pressured into reducing the use of coal and has kept the option open to use it until at least 2030. This stance puts India at odds with the emerging consensus on moving away from fossil fuels and aligns it with countries like China, Saudi Arabia, Russia, and Iran, all major coal-consuming nations.

Sources close to the matter have emphasized that India remains committed to substantially increasing its non-fossil power capacity by 2030 in line with its climate action pledge under the Paris Agreement. However, India cannot be a party to any commitment that hinders its efforts to lift millions out of poverty and accelerate development.

It should be noted that India's abstention does not indicate rigidity but rather a principled stand. The country may be open to joining the pledge later after negotiating the terms, as the agreement itself acknowledges the diverse circumstances of individual countries and their ability to negotiate.

An observer stated, "India's abstention is outside the COP28 negotiation process and represents the intent of global efforts. It in no way questions India's commitment. India is already on board as a signatory of the G20 New Delhi Leaders' Declaration."

During the G20 leaders' summit in Delhi, nations agreed to pursue and encourage efforts to triple global renewable energy capacity through existing targets and policies. These efforts also extend to zero and low-emission technologies, including abatement and removal technologies, by 2030, based on each nation's circumstances.

India's abstention from the recent pledge further highlights the complexities and challenges when it comes to aligning global actions on climate change. The negotiations around renewable energy and reducing reliance on coal are likely to continue, as countries navigate their unique circumstances while striving to address the urgent need for sustainable and cleaner energy solutions.