Solar Alliance Shows India's Leadership in Clean Energy: Experts

WASHINGTON: The launch of an unprecedented international solar alliance in Paris on the sidelines of the climate change summit shows India's leadership in clean energy, environmental experts here have said.

"This unprecedented international solar collaboration sets an encouraging tone as country representatives gather today to reach a new global climate agreement. India's leading role in forming an International Solar Alliance anchors its own climate commitment to ramp up renewable energy," said Rhea Suh, president of the Natural Resources Defense Council.

The alliance, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with French President Francois Hollande also has the potential to propel international solar markets forward while fighting climate change, improving global health and boosting economies, Suh said.

Launching the alliance in Paris, Modi and Hollande invited over 100 solar-rich countries to facilitate widespread implementation of solar projects and infrastructure.

"This new alliance is a sign of India's leadership on the global stage. The international alliance brings together developing and developed countries to expand energy access, accelerate solar power deployment, and stimulate economic development. Backed by $1 trillion in investment, the alliance should drive down the costs of solar power, making it affordable for a growing number of communities," said Manish Bapna, managing director World Resources Institute.

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