Green jobs not only provide livelihood opportunities, thereby reducing poverty but also empower local communities by ensuring reliable and affordable energy access
India stands at a crucial moment in its developmental journey, where economic growth and environmental sustainability must come together. The transition to clean energy is not just an environmental imperative but an economic opportunity that can drive job creation, enhance public health, and position India as a global leader in renewable energy. This transition promises a future where green jobs lead to blue skies, offering a brighter and more prosperous tomorrow for all Indians.
Sustainable and Inclusive Economic Growth
The clean energy sector offers diverse employment opportunities, spanning rural and urban areas and requiring varying skill levels. It has the potential to drive social and economic transformation in the country by promoting social equity in energy access. This inclusivity is crucial for a country like India, where equitable economic development is essential. For instance, decentralised renewable energy solutions, such as rooftop solar installations and microgrids, can generate employment in rural areas, where traditional job opportunities are often scarce. These green jobs not only provide livelihood opportunities, thereby reducing poverty but also empower local communities by ensuring reliable and affordable energy access. Women can experience substantial improvements in their lives with access to renewable energy, including better health, less work burden, and more opportunities for education and income generation.
Employment Generation: A Major Economic Benefit
One of the most compelling economic benefits of transitioning to clean energy is the potential for job creation. It will help in the creation of multiple direct and indirect green jobs and encourage private sector investment and domestic manufacturing, leading to economic development in rural areas of the country. As the world increasingly shifts towards sustainable energy sources, the demand for skilled labour in this sector is rising. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the renewable energy sector employed over 11.5 million people worldwide in 2019, with significant growth potential in countries like India. By investing in renewable energy infrastructure, India can create millions of new jobs across various segments, from manufacturing solar panels and wind turbines to installing and maintaining renewable energy systems. For instance, in 2022, the solar energy sector, specifically solar photovoltaics (PV), in India saw the creation of 2.82 lakh jobs.
Public Health Benefits and Economic Gains
The transition to clean energy also brings significant public health benefits, which translate into economic gains for especially vulnerable people. Traditional fuel-based energy production is a major source of air pollution, which has severe health consequences for millions of Indians. As per a report by the World Health Organisation (WHO), around 2.3 billion people worldwide still lack access to clean cooking solutions and are exposed to dangerous levels of air pollution. Air pollution caused over 2.3 million premature deaths in India in 2019, as per the Lancet Study. This not only perpetuates energy insecurity but also exposes women and their families to health risks associated with indoor air pollution. By reducing our reliance on traditional fuels and increasing the share of renewables in our energy mix, we can substantially cut down on harmful emissions. This reduction will lead to improved air quality, reducing the incidence of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, and thereby lowering healthcare costs and increasing productivity.
Growth and Opportunity for International Investment
India has emerged as a centre point for renewable energy investments, witnessing over $6.1 billion of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from April 2020 to September 2023. With a workforce of huge potential, access to affordable capital, the presence of incentive schemes and policies, and ease of doing business, India has emerged as an attractive location for establishing renewable energy manufacturing facilities. Long-term power purchase agreements at fixed rates, as well as a resilient grid network, increase investment returns. The automatic route allows up to 100% FDI in renewable energy generation and distribution projects. The Government of India has launched various schemes, including PM-KUSUM, PM Suryodaya Yojana, the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme, and also established Ultra Mega Renewable Energy Parks, creating opportunities for unprecedented growth in the renewable energy sector.
Conclusion
India's clean energy transition is a powerful catalyst for economic development. By embracing this transition, it can create millions of green jobs, improve public health, reduce energy costs, and attract international investment. Green jobs and blue skies are within our reach, and it is up to us to seize this opportunity for the benefit of all Indians.
(Saurabh Kumar, Vice President - India, Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet.)