International Solar Alliance Driving Global Clean Energy Shift, Says Pralhad Joshi

New Delhi, Mar 12:Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi said the International Solar Alliance (ISA) has emerged as a powerful global platform promoting solar energy and strengthening international cooperation for a clean energy future.

Speaking at the ISA Foundation Day celebrations in New Delhi on March 11, Joshi highlighted the growing global momentum behind solar power and the alliance’s role in expanding renewable energy access across developing and emerging economies.

He said the alliance reflects the strength of global partnership and shared commitment to sustainable development. According to the minister, what began as a joint initiative of India and France has now grown into a coalition of 125 member and signatory countries working together to accelerate the adoption of solar energy.

Joshi noted that the concept behind the alliance was rooted in the Indian philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, which emphasises global unity and cooperation. He said the alliance demonstrates how countries can collectively harness solar power to promote equitable access to clean energy.

Highlighting ISA’s achievements, the minister said its programmes have contributed to improving healthcare, agriculture and education in several countries by promoting solar-powered solutions. Initiatives such as solarising health centres, enabling solar irrigation for farmers and supporting renewable energy startups have created new opportunities and improved livelihoods.

Joshi also pointed to the rapid growth of solar energy globally. He said the world took nearly 25 years to install the first 1,000 gigawatts of solar capacity, but the next 1,000 gigawatts is expected to be added at a much faster pace as clean energy investments continue to increase.

Referring to India’s progress in renewable energy, the minister said the country’s installed solar capacity has reached nearly 136 gigawatts, accounting for almost half of the nation’s total renewable energy capacity. He attributed this growth to strong policy support and innovation.

He also highlighted major government initiatives that are expanding solar access across India. Programmes such as PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana are helping households generate their own electricity, while the PM-KUSUM scheme is promoting solar-powered irrigation systems for farmers.

Joshi added that the global energy transition is entering a new phase in which digital technologies and artificial intelligence will play a critical role in improving energy systems. In this context, he noted ISA’s efforts to advance the Global Mission on AI for Energy to support smarter and more resilient energy infrastructure.

Secretary in the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy Santosh Kumar Sarangi said solar power has become one of the most important resources for sustainable development. He noted that India is working towards achieving 500 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2030 through strong policy measures and expanded domestic manufacturing.

Sarangi also said India is committed to sharing its experience and expertise with other nations through international cooperation platforms such as the International Solar Alliance.

Director General of the International Solar Alliance Ashish Khanna said the organisation has evolved into a global coalition dedicated to expanding access to solar energy. He added that the alliance continues to work with member countries, institutions and partners to strengthen energy access, support livelihoods and promote sustainable growth.

During the event, ISA also announced the Green Hydrogen and Storage Start-up Challenge 2026 aimed at identifying innovative startups working on green hydrogen and energy storage technologies. Selected startups will receive mentoring support and access to markets across ISA member countries.

The alliance also unveiled an upgraded website designed to improve access to information, programmes and opportunities for member nations and partners while strengthening global engagement on solar initiatives.

Launched jointly by India and France during the 2015 climate conference in Paris, the International Solar Alliance has grown into a key intergovernmental platform promoting solar deployment, particularly in Africa, Asia, Latin America and small island nations where renewable energy can significantly expand energy access and support sustainable development.