Climate change is intensifying global hazards such as rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, sea level rise, and more frequent extreme weather events that pose profound risks to both the energy transition and electricity security. While driving the need for clean energy, these events also threaten the very infrastructure required for the energy transition. This article argues that we are at a pivotal moment: either allow climate risks to undermine decarbonization efforts or proactively build resilience into energy systems to ensure a sustainable future.
Fossil fuel dependence remains the primary driver of global warming, with record greenhouse gas emissions worsening climate impacts. India, among the most climate-vulnerable nations, faces significant risks as extreme weather disrupts both fossil-based and renewable energy infrastructure. Incidents like damaged solar farms, grid failures, and costly flood impacts highlight the urgency for climate-proofing the energy transition.
The article emphasizes that mitigation and adaptation must be pursued in parallel. This includes comprehensive climate risk assessments, engineering resilience into infrastructure, climate hazard mapping, and integrating future climate projections into renewable siting. Smart monitoring and early warning systems decentralized and distributed energy systems, climate-resilient storage solutions, and updated regulatory frameworks are also essential. Reducing peak demand through energy efficiency and embedding resilience into national and state policies will further strengthen the system.
For India, this challenge is also a strategic opportunity to lead globally by coupling rapid decarbonization efforts with resilience, ensuring a stable and equitable energy future. The decisions made in the next decade will be pivotal in determining whether we cross dangerous climate tipping points or secure a future of stability, sustainability, and shared prosperity. By coupling climate action with resilience-building, India can ensure its energy transition is not just green, but also strong, equitable, and future-ready.