India projected to drive 25% of global energy demand growth

India is projected to account for nearly 25 per cent of the growth in global energy consumption over the next two decades, according to Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. This surge in demand is driven by rapid economic expansion, increasing industrial production, urbanization, and rising household incomes.

The International Energy Agency estimates that India’s energy investment could reach approximately $170 billion by 2026. This capital is expected to support infrastructure across electricity generation, oil and gas, refining, renewable energy, transmission, and energy storage.

While renewable energy is expanding, conventional fuels remain vital for transportation and manufacturing. India faces the dual challenge of meeting this rising demand while ensuring energy security and transitioning toward cleaner energy sources.