Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi wrapped up a successful three-day visit to Germany from 6th to 9th October, highlighting India’s commitment to global sustainability and enhancing bilateral cooperation in the energy sector. His trip coincided with the Hamburg Sustainability Conference (HSC), where he delivered a keynote address emphasizing India’s leadership in renewable energy initiatives, including the International Solar Alliance.
During his address on October 7, Joshi outlined India’s impressive progress in renewable energy over the past decade. He called for increased international collaboration to address the challenges of the global energy transition, particularly in areas like green shipping.
The Minister engaged in numerous bilateral discussions with global leaders. Notable meetings included discussions with Achim Steiner, Administrator of the UNDP, focusing on future collaborations in sustainable development, and with Svenja Schulze, Germany’s Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development, to align on green energy priorities.
Joshi also had the opportunity to meet Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and exchanged views with other leaders, including Karim Badawi, Egypt’s Minister of Petroleum, and Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the IMF, addressing issues of global sustainability and energy transition.
In Berlin, Joshi met with Dr. Robert Habeck, Germany’s Vice-Chancellor, who praised India’s rapid growth in the renewable sector and expressed optimism about India’s goal of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy. The two discussed opportunities in green hydrogen, offshore wind, biogas, and recycling solar waste.
The visit also included an event with the Indian diaspora, where Joshi acknowledged their contributions to Germany’s economy and India’s global standing. Earlier in September, during RE-INVEST 2024, India and Germany launched the India-Germany Platform for Investment in Renewable Energies, further solidifying their commitment to renewable energy collaboration.