The International Solar Alliance Has Shone a Path to Clean Energy

The ISA has rallied the world for a just and sustainable future and its four pillars can drive the Global South's solar embrace

- PRALHAD JOSHI

In April, India reached 224 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity, with 108GW representing solar exclusively. Of this solar capacity, 105GW was added in the last decade. It accounts for a third of total additions in the Global South. This rise can be attributed to the fact that India, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has a clear policy and regulatory framework for private sector-led investments in solar energy.

India's efforts to make solar energy accessible and desirable have been decisive. The Solar Energy Corporation of India instilled confidence in the private sector by ensuring transparent solar bidding and timely disbursement of subsidies.

Due to growing demand, technological advancement and the implementation of auction as well as reverse auction mechanisms, solar energy tariffs have fallen 69% between 2014 and 2024, with the lowest bid price reaching ₹2.00 per kilowatt hour. While solar installations have grown, local manufacturing has also been promoted. India's module-making capacity has reached 80GW and cell manufacturing capacity 25GW.

With rapid growth in renewables, India has an opportunity to steer a solar energy revolution in the Global South and lead by example. In 2024, India hosted the Voice of Global South Summit in which 123 countries participated. These countries are at various stages of market maturity and stand to benefit by embracing India's experience.

India has always spoken for developing nations, like in the G20, where India ensured the membership of the African Union. This proactive stance on the global stage is guided by the virtues of collaboration and cooperation enshrined in the 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (One World, One Earth, One Family) motto that we follow.