India's Emissions Intensity Declines Amid Rising Absolute Greenhouse Gas Output

India has made progress in reducing emissions intensity by approximately 36% since 2005, ahead of its 2030 target. However, absolute greenhouse gas emissions remain high, with 2,959 MtCO₂e recorded in 2020. The country's renewable energy capacity has increased significantly, yet coal still accounts for over 70% of electricity production. Challenges persist in storage capacity, grid connectivity, and the effective implementation of forest carbon sequestration targets. The next five years are critical for improving renewable energy generation and addressing emissions reductions.

Published Mar 25, 2026

India reduced its emissions intensity by around 36% by 2020, surpassing its 2030 target of 33-35%. This decline is attributed to the rise in non-fossil power capacity, shifts towards lower-carbon economic sectors, and national efficiency programs.

AI-curated by Theia

However, absolute emissions remained high at 2,959 MtCO₂e in 2020. The non-fossil capacity reached about 51% by mid-2025, but coal still produces over 70% of electricity. Despite programs aimed at increasing renewables, challenges in storage capacity and grid connectivity persist.

India's forest carbon sequestration target of 2.5-3 billion tonnes by 2030 appears achievable, yet implementation issues affect progress. The next five years are crucial for addressing these challenges and translating capacity into sustainable generation.