US Special Envoy on Climate Change said embracing rapid electrification not only aligns with environmental goals but also contributes to a cleaner, more sustainable, and more secure future for the country
The US Special Envoy on Climate Change, John Kerry, highlighted the electrification drive in India's transport sector as a significant opportunity during the global climate talks at COP28. Kerry emphasised that the faster India pursues electrification, the more it mitigates greenhouse gas emissions, reduces pollution, and enhances the country's overall security.
Speaking at an event at the Indian Pavilion, Kerry stated, "Electrification in India is one of the biggest opportunities that we have. The faster that India can do this, the more it cuts greenhouse gas emissions and pollution, an it increases India's security." He encouraged embracing rapid electrification as it aligns with environmental goals and contributes to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Kerry commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visionary concept of a circular economy and urged the expansion of access to low-carbon public transport, emphasising the role of supply chains in India's growing economy.
Highlighting India's commitment to electrify 50,000 buses, Kerry stressed the collaborative nature of this effort. He emphasised the focus on implementing Indian solutions to maximise domestic opportunities and decarbonise the transportation sector. Kerry noted that this initiative builds upon India's past successes in deploying 50,000 electric vehicles.
Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav, also present at the gathering, emphasised the crucial role of electric vehicles (EVs) in achieving the goal of net-zero emissions. Yadav noted that prioritising electric buses is essential for decarbonising the transport sector, especially given their role in serving the mass public.
Yadav acknowledged challenges faced by public transport authorities (PTAs) in transitioning to e-buses, including high upfront costs and lower revenue realisation.
He highlighted the India-US Payment Security Mechanism (PSM) for e-buses as an incentive for both Indian and international manufacturers and operators to participate in e-bus operations. The PSM aims to facilitate the growth of the e-bus industry, potentially establishing a manufacturing hub in India and contributing to e-bus exports.