The Union power ministry has released a draft National Electricity Policy, projecting per capita consumption of 2,000 kilowatt-hour (kWh) by 2030 and over 4,000 kWh by 2047 in line with India’s vision for a $30 trillion economy and energy independence. In 2023-24, the per capita electricity consumption was 1,395 kWh. The draft has also been formulated to keep India on track to achieve its climate commitments. (HT PHOTO/Representative) The draft has also been formulated to keep India on track to achieve its climate commitments under the Paris Agreement. India has committed to cutting emissions intensity by 45% below 2005 levels by 2030 as part of its nationally determined contribution and to achieve net-zero by 2070, requiring a shift to low-carbon energy. India has achieved over 250 GW of renewable energy capacity, including 50 GW of large hydro, which is over 50% of the total installed generation capacity. The draft says India’s energy independence, aligned with low-carbon pathways, hinges on maximising non-fossil fuel-based generation, electrifying end-use sectors such as industry, transport, and cooking, using clean electricity, and …