India remains in the top 10 on the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) 2025. Despite slipping two spots, it excels in areas like low per-capita emissions and renewable energy deployment.
The annual index, compiled by Germanwatch, New Climate Institute, and Climate Action Network International, evaluates 63 countries. It tracks emissions, renewable energy use, and climate policies, spotlighting global leaders and laggards.
The Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) is an instrument to allow transparency in national and international climate politics. The CCPI uses a standardized framework to compare the climate performance of 63 countries and the EU. Together, they account for over 90% of global greenhouse gas emissions. The climate mitigation performance is assessed in four categories: GHG Emissions, Renewable Energy, Energy Use and Climate Policy.
STRONG SCORES IN EMISSIONS AND ENERGY USE
India secures high rankings in Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions and Energy Use categories. Still, it performs moderately in Climate Policy and poorly in Renewable Energy.
The country’s vast population keeps per-capita emissions low, and its energy consumption remains comparatively modest. But challenges persist in scaling renewable energy to meet its ambitious climate goals.
RENEWABLE ENERGY: A DECADE OF GROWTH
India has shown strong progress in renewable, particularly solar energy. Large-scale projects and government initiatives like the Rooftop Solar Scheme highlight its commitment.
Experts believe India will meet its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. Yet, they recommend broadening targets to include transport, housing, and industrial sectors.
ADVANCES IN SOLAR POWER
Over the past year, India expanded its solar energy initiatives:
- Large-scale solar farms were developed.
- The Rooftop Solar Scheme gained traction.
- Off-grid solar systems saw limited growth but need more support.
PUSH FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLES
India also made strides in electric mobility:
- Two-wheeler EV adoption surged.
- Efforts to enhance energy efficiency standards began, though coverage is still inadequate.
CHALLENGES IN COAL DEPENDENCY
Despite renewable energy progress, coal remains India’s Achilles’ heel. The country relies heavily on coal for energy. It ranks among the top 10 nations with the largest developed coal reserves.
The CCPI report criticizes the slow pace of India’s coal phase-out and notes plans to expand coal production. This dependency undermines climate goals and stalls the energy transition.
CALL FOR AMBITIOUS CLIMATE POLICIES
India held its general elections this year, re-electing Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a third term. Experts predict minimal policy changes in climate action.
India’s current climate approach prioritizes economic growth over decarbonization. Rising energy demand from industry and population drives this strategy. State-level disparities in policy implementation further complicate progress.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR IMPROVEMENT
Experts propose key changes to India’s climate strategy:
- Revise NDC Targets: Expand to include more sectors like transport, industry, and housing.
- Accelerate Energy Transition: Increase support for renewable energy projects, particularly rooftop and off-grid solar systems.
- Phase Out Coal: Set clearer timelines for reducing coal dependence while ensuring a just transition for workers.
BALANCING GROWTH WITH SUSTAINABILITY
India’s dual focus on economic growth and climate action reflects its unique challenges as a developing nation. While it’s renewable energy strides are commendable, coal reliance and gaps in policy remain significant hurdles.
The country’s ability to align growth with sustainability will determine its future as a global climate leader.
