NEW DELHI: The inaugural session of the South Asia Clean Energy Forum commenced today in Jaipur, gathering leaders from across the region to address the urgent challenges posed by climate change. With nearly a quarter of the world’s population residing in South Asia, the forum aims to explore collaborative solutions to mitigate rising temperatures, escalating energy demands, and the need for resilient infrastructure.
U.S. Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti emphasized the United States’ commitment to supporting the region’s clean energy transition. “Today, I am thrilled to see the launch of several key initiatives that will help propel this effort forward,” he stated. Garcetti highlighted South Asia’s potential as a leader in innovative solutions to climate challenges, noting the extraordinary opportunity for regional cooperation to protect the planet and ensure future prosperity.
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Shri Heeralal Nagar, Minister of State for Energy, Government of Rajasthan, underscored the forum’s significance in light of rapid economic growth in South Asia. “Prioritizing clean and renewable energy sources is the need of the hour,” he remarked, calling for collective efforts to combat global climate challenges and improve public access to renewable energy. He extended an invitation to international investors to consider opportunities within Rajasthan’s energy sector.
During the session, U.S. and South Asian leaders unveiled three new initiatives aimed at accelerating the region’s clean energy progress. These include the U.S.-South Asia Mayoral Platform on Clean Energy and Sustainable Cities, which empowers local leaders to spearhead municipal clean energy transitions; the U.S.-India Low Carbon Comfort and Cooling Collective, targeting the mobilization of $1 billion for super-efficient cooling technologies by 2030; and the Clean Energy Investment Facilitation Platform, designed to connect investors with clean energy companies and address the financing gap for projects.
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These initiatives, backed by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) through its South Asia Regional Energy Partnership (SAREP), align with U.S. government priorities to combat climate change and foster sustainable economic growth in South Asia. By promoting innovation, cooperation, and investment, the United States aims to pave the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future, enhancing energy security while creating economic opportunities and advancing global climate goals.
The South Asia Clean Energy Forum continues through October 24, serving as a vital platform for dialogue and collaboration on the region’s clean energy transition.