On May 19, 2025, Union Minister for Power and Housing and Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal, led the Indian delegation at the BRICS Energy Ministers’ Meeting in Brasília, Brazil, under Brazil’s Presidency. The meeting focused on fostering inclusive and sustainable energy governance, with India emphasizing its leadership in clean energy and inviting BRICS nations to the 2026 Energy Gathering in India. This article explores India’s contributions and the key outcomes of the meet.
India’s Vision for Energy Security
Promoting Global Cooperation
Shri Manohar Lal highlighted energy security as a pressing global challenge, urging enhanced BRICS cooperation to ensure economic stability and sustainability. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to a sustainable and inclusive energy future, aligning with Brazil’s theme of “Strengthening Global South Cooperation”. The Minister emphasized the importance of energy access and affordability in achieving global development goals, positioning India as a leader in the Global South.
India’s Clean Energy Achievements
A Global Leader in Sustainability
The Union Minister showcased India’s remarkable progress in clean energy, including:
- A 90% increase in electricity capacity to 475 GW in 2025, targeting 900 GW by 2032.
- Ranking as the third-largest producer of solar and wind energy globally.
- Achieving 20% ethanol blending, advancing biofuel adoption.
- Investing in smart grids, Green Energy Corridor, and green hydrogen.
- Launching a domestic Carbon Credit Market to promote global collaboration.
Balancing Fossil Fuels and Clean Energy
A Pragmatic Approach
Recognizing the vital role of fossil fuels in developing countries, Shri Manohar Lal advocated for their cleaner use through technologies like coal gasification and carbon capture and storage. This approach aligns with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities (CBDR-RC), ensuring a just and balanced energy transition that supports both economic growth and environmental goals.
Key Outcomes of the Meet
Strengthening BRICS Energy Cooperation
The BRICS Energy Ministerial Communiqué outlined several key outcomes:
- Commitment to UN Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7), focusing on universal electricity access and clean cooking.
- Support for open, fair, and non-discriminatory international energy markets, encouraging local currency trade.
- Recognition of the BRICS Energy Research Cooperation Platform and adoption of the BRICS Roadmap for Energy Cooperation (2025–2030).
- Advocacy for concessional financing from developed nations and the role of the New Development Bank (NDB) in sustainable infrastructure.
India’s Leadership in 2026
Hosting the Next BRICS Energy Gathering
Shri Manohar Lal extended an invitation to BRICS nations for the BRICS Energy Gathering in 2026, to be hosted by India. This event will further India’s role in shaping the global energy agenda, promoting sustainable development, and fostering collaboration among the Global South to address energy challenges.
Key Highlights
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | BRICS Energy Ministers’ Meet on May 19, 2025, in Brasília, Brazil |
| Key Figure | Shri Manohar Lal, Union Minister for Power |
| India’s Achievements | 475 GW electricity capacity, third-largest solar/wind producer, 20% ethanol blending |
| Key Outcomes | SDG 7 focus, local currency trade, BRICS Energy Roadmap 2025–2030 |
| Future Event | BRICS Energy Gathering in India, 2026 |
| Impact | Strengthens inclusive energy governance, advances Global South cooperation |