US is committed partner of India’s ambitious energy transition journey: Jonathan Heimer

New Delhi: Stressing on the robust Indo-US ties and India’s growing energy space, Jonathan Heimer, Minister Counselor for Commercial Affairs, US Foreign Commercial Service (FCS) on Tuesday said the United States is a committed partner of India’s ambitious energy transition journey.

Addressing the 2nd Energy Summit of Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC)here he said, “There is significant opportunity in India for collaboration between stakeholders in both countries in the energy space”.

“In India we see so many opportunities for collaboration in the energy segment. With that reason we have established a strong presence in India,” he said, speaking at the IACC inaugural session of the event themed ‘Climate Change and Decarbonization of Indian Economy – Vision 2030’

“US is a committed partner in India’s clean energy journey. From solar and wind power to energy storage and grid modernization, American businesses are actively contributing to India’s ambitious goals” Heimer added.

Noting that India is undergoing an extraordinary journey in terms of energy transition, he added that its ambitious of 500 GW installed renewable energy capacity by 2030 underscores the country’s goal to be a global leader in the clean energy space.

Carrie Antal, Deputy Director – Indo- Pacific Office, USAID was of the view that given India’s success in economic growth, several countries are looking at India for ideas and are aiming to follow its footsteps to achieve similar levels of growth trajectory.

“Many eyes are on India now. Many are looking at India for ideas and support that can propel their own march towards prosperity,” she said.

Outlining the partnership of USAID and India, Antal said that in the past USAID and India collaborated to fuel India’s green revolution, improve public health and education and made a foundation for inclusive and sustainable economic growth here.

“Today the US partners with Indian private and public sectors to accelerate the achievement of sustainable development goals within India and also worldwide,” she further added.

Address the event, Upendra Tripathy, IAS (retired), Former Secretary, MNRE, GOI & Founding DG, International Solar Alliance said there are institutions, individuals and ideas in both countries and there is ample scope for bilateral engagements and knowledge sharing.

Talking of the diverse and vast aspects of energy transition, he said, “We are not anymore talking of energy, coal, hydro, renewable alone. We have to reach out all these sectors and that is where mitigation and adaptation play and equal role.”

Sunil Jain Summit, Chairman, Energy Committee, IACC & Founder Partner Sundev Renewables said although governments and policymakers have become proactive in terms of net zero targets, it needs to be seen whether it is enough or it is a case of too, only time.

He also said that small modular reactors (SMR) would play a key role in the future energy transition and it is a major space where both India and the US can collaborate.