India's Transport Sector: Meeting the Challenge of Decarbonization by 2070
Key Ideas
- India faces a significant challenge in achieving net zero emissions target by 2070 due to exponential growth in passenger and freight vehicles, according to a study by TERI.
- The report highlights the increasing demand for fossil fuels, especially diesel and petrol, in the transport sector, which will lead to a threefold increase in greenhouse gas emissions by 2070.
- To combat rising emissions, the study suggests a shift towards natural gas, electricity, and hydrogen as transportation fuels, along with enhancing public transport services and promoting cleaner fuel adoption.
- Alternative solutions such as electrification of railways and modal shifts to railways for cargo and passenger traffic are recommended to further reduce emissions and achieve decarbonization goals.
A study conducted by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) in New Delhi reveals that India is set to face a significant challenge in meeting its net zero emissions target by 2070. The study projects a drastic increase in the number of passenger vehicles from 193 million to 897 million and goods-carrying vehicles from 11 million to 69 million by 2070–71, posing a threat to decarbonization efforts. Fossil fuel demand, especially for diesel and petrol, is expected to rise significantly, leading to a threefold increase in greenhouse gas emissions by 2070. The report emphasizes the urgent need for a transition towards natural gas, electricity, and hydrogen as transportation fuels to mitigate emissions.
The study advocates for collaborations between the government and private sector to enhance public transport services, reduce road congestion, and promote the adoption of cleaner fuels. It suggests leveraging solar rooftop charging to reduce dependence on the grid for electric vehicle (EV) charging. While India is progressing in the electrification of three-wheelers, the adoption of EVs in the medium and heavy goods vehicle segment remains low, necessitating massive expansions in charging infrastructure and advancements in battery technology.
TERI proposes railways as a practical solution for emission reduction, with a projected increase in track electrification and modal shifts to railways for both passenger and cargo traffic. Additionally, the study mentions the potential for increasing coastal cargo traffic to further reduce emissions. The adoption pathway for hydrogen as a fuel begins with grey hydrogen, transitioning to blue hydrogen and ultimately green hydrogen as prices become more competitive in the long run.
Overall, the study outlines key strategies for India to combat the escalating emissions from the transport sector, emphasizing the importance of decarbonization, cleaner fuel adoption, and modal shifts to sustainable modes of transport.
Topics
India
Electric Vehicles
Energy Transition
Decarbonization
Transportation Sector
Fossil Fuels
GHG Emissions
Railways
Cleaner Fuels
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