NITI Aayog Power Sector Roadmap Towards Net Zero

Report overview

NITI Aayog Power Sector Roadmap Towards Net Zero: NITI Aayog released the report titled “Scenarios Towards Viksit Bharat and Net Zero: Power Sector” on 13 February 2026. It analyses India’s electricity transition under the Current Policy Scenario (CPS) and the Net Zero Scenario (NZS) aligned with India’s commitment to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2070.

The report highlights that the power sector contributed 39.4% of India’s total greenhouse gas emissions in 2020, making it the largest emitting sector. Therefore, transforming electricity generation is critical for achieving climate targets and economic growth.

Static GK fact: NITI Aayog was established on 1 January 2015, replacing the Planning Commission, and its headquarters is located in New Delhi.

Rising electricity demand

The report projects that electricity will become the dominant energy carrier by 2070. Its share in total energy consumption is expected to increase to 40% under CPS and 60% under NZS.

This increase will be driven by electrification of transport, industries, and households. Technologies like electric vehicles (EVs), electric cooking, and green hydrogen production will increase electricity demand significantly.

Static GK Tip: India is the third-largest producer and consumer of electricity in the world after China and the United States.

Massive renewable energy expansion

India’s installed power capacity is projected to grow 9 to 14 times by 2070, with renewable energy contributing 90–93% of total capacity. Solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind energy will dominate this expansion.

Distributed renewable systems such as rooftop solar and decentralized grids will play a crucial role in improving energy access and reducing transmission losses. This transition will reduce dependence on fossil fuels and strengthen energy security.

India already ranks among the top countries in renewable deployment, with ambitious targets under national climate commitments.

Role of storage and nuclear energy

A renewable-dominated grid requires strong storage support to maintain stability. The report estimates the need for up to 3,000 GW of battery storage capacity and 160 GW of pumped hydro storage by 2070.

At the same time, nuclear power capacity will increase from 8.8 GW to over 300 GW, ensuring reliable and continuous electricity supply. The introduction of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) will enhance flexibility and safety.

Static GK fact: India’s first nuclear power plant was established at Tarapur in Maharashtra in 1969.

Policy and infrastructure reforms

The report recommends expanding Green Energy Corridors to transmit renewable power efficiently across regions. It also emphasizes digitization of grids, strengthening DISCOM reforms, and introducing peer-to-peer electricity trading.

Policy reforms include implementing cost-reflective tariffs, strengthening renewable obligations, and improving power market efficiency. The use of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) will improve demand forecasting and grid management.

Financial measures such as green bonds, climate finance, and public-private partnerships (PPP) will be essential to support infrastructure development.

Supporting Viksit Bharat vision

The report aligns with India’s broader vision of becoming a Viksit Bharat (developed nation) while ensuring environmental sustainability. Clean electricity will drive industrial growth, technological innovation, and energy independence.

This transition will reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality, and strengthen India’s global leadership in climate action.

Static GK Tip: India announced its Net Zero target at the COP26 Climate Summit in Glasgow in 2021.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table

NITI Aayog Power Sector Roadmap Towards Net Zero: