Targets and Supporting Strategies for the Clean Energy Development in Delhi

Abstract

IEA’s flagship The World Energy Outlook (2016) estimates urban energy related CO₂ emissions as above 20Gt, i.e. over 70% of the global total. Cities in non-Annex I countries (which are mostly developing countries) generally have much higher levels of energy use compared to the national average, in contrast to cities in Annex-I countries, which generally have lower energy use per capita than national averages. Indian cities host 32% of the national population, yet these contribute to 85% of energy production through thermal plants and 66.5–70.3% of national greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Low-grade coal, low efficiency and power-load factor of these plants are responsible not only for growing global GHGs but poor air-quality in the cities too. Meanwhile, there is an emerging interest and application in favour of clean energy (CE) globally. The World Energy Outlook foresees a strong potential in the growth of CE to meet the increasing energy demand until 2040. Its relevance to urbanization and cities is immense particularly in rapidly developing Asia, as given due credence by IPCC’s 5th Assessment Report too. However, response of Asian cities towards clean energy and climate issues is relatively incipient and riddled with several technical and policy related challenges, as demonstrated by India’s capital city – New Delhi. This research qualitatively examines some of the key initiatives, including public policies, their targets and supporting strategies undertaken for CE development in Delhi. This is substantiated by assimilating evidence through case studies in urban energy, transport and waste sectors in Delhi and analyzing these for their effectiveness. The study thus evaluates the current situation, demand-supply gaps, etc. thereby inferring opportunities and challenges to realize a clean and green future for the city.