As Earth Day 2025 marks its 55th year with the theme “Our Power, Our Planet,” India finds itself at the heart of a global energy transformation. The call to action is no longer about possibility—it is about intent, scale, and urgency. For a country striving to balance rapid economic development with environmental stewardship, the journey to Net-Zero emissions by 2070 is not just a commitment—it is a mission.

With over 200 GW of renewable energy capacity already installed, India’s clean energy momentum is undeniable. The nation’s ambitious target of 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030 demonstrates a determined leap toward energy independence and carbon neutrality. Solar power continues to dominate new installations, accounting for nearly 80% of recent additions, while hybrid and wind energy are also seeing renewed investment.

Central to this energy revolution is the commercial and industrial (C&I) sector, which consumes nearly half of India’s electricity. Driven by ESG goals, cost advantages, and a growing sense of environmental responsibility, this sector is no longer waiting for policy mandates. Companies are proactively investing in solar, wind, hybrid solutions, and carbon mitigation technologies. CleanMax, for example, is enabling large-scale decarbonization by offering integrated renewable energy solutions, helping industries transition toward sustainable operations.

Earth Day serves as a powerful reminder that achieving net-zero emissions is not a solitary effort—it requires bold corporate actions, meaningful partnerships, and technological innovation. Players like Emmvee are setting benchmarks by not only producing high-efficiency solar modules but also implementing sustainable practices like Zero Liquid Discharge in their manufacturing, and recycling over 90% of process water.

India’s roadmap is also rooted in systemic reforms. Between 2014 and 2018, fossil fuel subsidies were slashed by 85%, with funds redirected to clean energy projects. Plans are underway to tender 50 GW of solar capacity annually until FY 2027–28, complemented by significant investments in solar parks, EV infrastructure, and smart grid upgrades.

Technology remains a critical enabler. The National Hydrogen Mission aims to establish India as a global leader in green hydrogen, targeting 5 million metric tons of production by 2030. Similarly, advancements in Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS) will be crucial for decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors like cement and steel.

India’s transition strategy aligns closely with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), weaving together economic development, social progress, and environmental protection. The path to 2070 may be challenging, but India’s comprehensive, forward-thinking approach makes it both achievable and replicable.

As we celebrate Earth Day, we are reminded that sustainable change is not optional—it is essential. The rising demands for energy, infrastructure, and growth must be met without compromising our planet’s future. Through bold vision, consistent execution, and shared responsibility, India is charting a greener path where economic prosperity and ecological harmony go hand in hand.

Mr. Kuldeep Jain, Managing Director, CleanMax

“As Earth Day marks its 55^th year with the theme ‘Our Power, Our Planet,’ the message is clear: the future of energy is about real intent. With over 200 GW of renewable capacity, India’s clean energy shift is led by the C&I sector. ESG goals, cost factors, and decarbonization urgency are driving this. Companies are acting, not waiting. At CleanMax, we’re enabling this transition with integrated solutions. Hybrid and wind growth show market maturity, especially in hard-to-abate sectors. Earth Day reminds us: achieving net-zero requires bold collaboration and innovation that matches the urgency of the climate crisis.”

Mr. D.V. Manjunatha, Managing Director & Founder, Emmvee

“At Emmvee, we support India’s Net-Zero commitment as a crucial step toward a sustainable and energy-independent future. As a solar leader, we’re proud to contribute by designing modules that cut carbon footprints and implementing Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) tech in our factories, recycling 90% of the water used. Innovation and long-term responsibility are our foundation. We aim to build a sustainable business that supports global climate goals. Through collaboration, bold thinking, and consistent execution, Emmvee is committed to accelerating the renewable energy transition, working across sectors and communities to ensure impactful progress toward sustainability.”

Mr. Gautam Mohanka, CEO, Gautam Solar

“India is leading the way to a sustainable future, anchored in promises made at COP26. Our goal: net zero by 2070, supported by a strategic push for 500 GW non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030. Solar leads the charge, accounting for 80% of new capacity, with 50 GW to be tendered annually through FY 2027-28. Reforms have cut fossil fuel subsidies by 85%, redirecting funds to clean energy. Initiatives like the National Hydrogen Mission and CCUS tech reinforce India’s alignment with the SDGs, ensuring sustainability is central to economic development and energy security.”

Mr. Praveen Kakulte, CEO, Powercon Group

“Earth Day reminds us that environmental challenges are deeply tied to how we live and grow. Resource strain and climate change demand a new growth model. Renewable energy is vital, but we must also enhance efficiency, storage, and access. Government action through smart policies and strong infrastructure is essential for enabling this shift. With nearly 80% of global energy still fossil-based, the need—and opportunity—for transition is immense. This year’s theme, ‘Our Power, Our Planet,’ highlights that true change needs shared commitment. When governments, industries, and communities act together, we can build a thriving, sustainable future for all.”

“The power to protect our planet lies in our hands—and India is rising to that challenge“