India and China opted out of the renewable power pledge at the UN climate summit (COP28) in contrast to the 118 other nations.

The collective commitment aimed to triple the global renewable energy generation capacity to at least 11,000 GW and double the average annual energy rate efficiency by 2030.

This aligns with the Paris Agreement Goals to meet the 2°C warming limit.

It also highlights the role of energy efficiency in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goal 7 for “affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all”.

India refrains from making any commitments until 2030 to avoid hindering development, despite plans to boost non-fossil energy capacity.

India, heavily reliant on coal for electricity generation, was cautious about commitments, particularly amid increasing energy demands.