Upcoming Event: Delayed Thermal Coal Phase-Down in India – Workshop
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Consultative Workshop on “Viksit Bharat @2047 and Net Zero @2070 Trajectory”
On 10 September 2025, the Ashoka Centre for a People-centric Energy Transition (ACPET) will host a consultative workshop titled “Viksit Bharat @2047 and Net Zero @2070 Trajectory: Delayed Thermal Coal Phase-Down in India.” The event will take place from 10 AM to 4 PM at Lecture Room 1, India International Centre (IIC) Annexe, New Delhi. This workshop aims to explore the complex balance between India’s developmental goals and its long-term climate commitments.
India has committed to becoming a developed nation by 2047 under its “Viksit Bharat” vision while also pledging to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2070. However, coal still contributes to over 70% of the country’s electricity generation. In light of this, any transition away from thermal coal must be gradual, strategic, and inclusive. ACPET, through its Energy Future’s Lab, has developed AI and ML-backed tools such as the Coal Economy Model and an Energy Chatbot to analyze possible transition pathways. These tools suggest that a significant coal phase-down before 2047 may not be feasible if India is to meet its growth targets.
The workshop will begin with an opening session featuring addresses by senior policymakers and energy experts. This will be followed by two key sessions: one on the macroeconomic impacts of the coal transition under the dual objectives of Viksit Bharat and Net Zero, and another roundtable discussion on practical policy measures. The latter will focus on electricity demand, infrastructure for coal and renewables, and support systems for coal-dependent communities.
Key outcomes expected from the workshop include the sharing of insights from ACPET’s modelling efforts, dialogue on realistic coal phase-down timelines, and development of policy recommendations for a just transition. The emphasis will be on ensuring that economic growth, energy security, and environmental responsibility move forward together, with special attention to the needs of vulnerable communities affected by the energy transition.
The event will bring together diverse stakeholders including academic researchers, government officials, industry leaders, and civil society representatives. Notable participants include Dr. Anil Kumar Jain, Chairperson of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB), along with experts from institutions such as the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), World Resources Institute (WRI), Prayas, and the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW).
ACPET is a transdisciplinary research centre at Ashoka University focused on advancing equitable and sustainable energy pathways in India and across the Global South. The centre’s work is rooted in innovation and inclusivity, striving to create people-first energy transition strategies that are practical, impactful, and future-ready.
