India Highlights Renewable Push At BRICS Energy Meeting

Khattar said power systems worldwide are facing mounting challenges as renewable energy moves to the centre of the transition and grids must adapt to manage real-time demand. He outlined that the grid of the future will integrate large amounts of renewable generation, support energy storage and empower consumers through digital technologies. Khattar noted that India is implementing one of the world's largest smart metering programmes to accelerate digitalisation and improve grid efficiency.

He set out an ambitious roadmap for storage and said India has identified potential for 260 gigawatt (GW) of pumped storage and is targeting nearly 100 gigawatt (GW) of pumped storage capacity. He added that India is aiming for around 80 gigawatt (GW) of battery storage systems to complement renewable deployment. These targets were presented as part of efforts to enhance energy security and system flexibility.

The minister outlined that India's energy agenda under its BRICS presidency is centred on energy security and sustainability, energy access and equity, and technology and innovation. The BRICS grouping currently comprises 11 countries and accounts for nearly half of the world's population and around 40 per cent of global GDP. The ministry said the meeting is expected to strengthen cooperation on innovation and sustainable development while promoting practical collaboration towards secure, affordable and future-ready energy systems.