BEE Director General Stresses Universal Net Zero Goal at Mangaluru Summit
Director General of the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), Abhay Bakre, declared that achieving net zero emissions must be a goal embraced by every sector to foster harmony with nature. He made these remarks during the 'MIR Net Zero Vision 2047' summit held at the TMA Pai Convention Centre in Mangaluru on Friday.
India's Green Energy Potential and Practical Pathways
Bakre highlighted India's immense potential for green energy production, citing the country's abundant sunshine and water resources as key advantages for economically viable green fuel generation. "The net zero target is not only achievable but also practical in India," he asserted. He outlined specific areas for transition, including buildings, educational campuses, industries, and public transport hubs, which can integrate solar, wind, and biomass energy solutions.
The BEE has already issued comprehensive guidelines for net zero buildings, and notably, the ministry's own office operates as a net zero facility, setting a precedent for others to follow. Bakre identified green hydrogen as the next frontier in energy, capable of replacing fossil fuels. "Green hydrogen can be blended with piped natural gas for domestic cooking, and pilot projects are currently underway to realize this vision," he explained.
Scaling Technologies and Economic Benefits
To advance these initiatives, Bakre emphasized the urgent need for scaling up technologies and increasing investments. Such efforts are expected to generate substantial employment opportunities, reduce India's reliance on fossil fuel imports, and significantly strengthen the nation's energy security. "Ultimately, these measures will pave the way for a sustainable net zero future," he added, drawing a parallel to historical civilizations that functioned without fossil fuels by relying entirely on renewable energy sources.
He provided encouraging statistics, noting that India's solar installed capacity has already surpassed 130 gigawatts. Government schemes like PM-Surya Ghar Rooftop Solar and PM Kusum Yojana are actively supporting the net zero goal by promoting widespread adoption of renewable energy across the country.
International and Local Perspectives on Sustainability
MIR Group CEO Raffaele Marrazzo echoed the commitment to sustainability, stating that the group believes in sustainable urban regeneration. "We need to protect our environmental resources, manage waste effectively, and transition to clean energy. This will help create sustainable income and jobs, advance a circular economy, and significantly reduce our environmental impact," he said. Marrazzo highlighted Italy's collaboration with the European community over years to achieve net zero energy goals by 2050, and outlined MIR Group's strategies, such as prioritizing locally produced renewable plant-based materials, reducing plastic use, and employing renewable energy sources.
On the local front, Sringeri MLA and Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Ltd (KREDL) chairman T D Raje Gowda reported significant progress in Karnataka's renewable energy efforts. The state increased its wind power capacity by 1,331.5 megawatts (MW), securing the top position in the country for wind power capacity addition in the financial year 2024-25. Gowda affirmed that Karnataka has undertaken several initiatives aligned with India's national commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2070.
DK MP Capt Brijesh Chowta addressed infrastructure developments, mentioning a proposed elevated corridor from Nanthoor to Kuloor and from KIOCL junction to Baikampady aimed at decongesting the national highway in Mangaluru. The event was attended by notable figures including Consulate-General of Italy Giandomenico Milano, MSEZ CEO Sooryanarayana V, and DC Darshan H V, underscoring the collaborative effort towards a greener future.
