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Tasmanian expertise powering India’s clean energy and net zero journey

At COP26 in Glasgow, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced India’s target of achieving net zero emissions by 2070.

Entura, a Hobart-based consultancy, is playing a critical role in India’s pursuit of its ambitious net zero goals. With a team of 25 consultants in Delhi, the company is helping generate and store clean energy while integrating it into local grids. By enhancing energy storage capabilities, Entura is making large-scale wind and solar projects more viable, directly contributing to India’s renewable energy transformation.

‘Overseas companies think India is overwhelming, but the things we do touch real lives,’ says Dr Amanda Ashworth, Managing Director of Entura.

‘Enabling clean energy – and doing it responsibly – has a broad social impact. We are making a difference to people’s lives in India, bit by bit.’

India, home to 1.4 billion people, faces a complex challenge to balance rapid economic growth with decarbonisation. At COP26 in Glasgow, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced India’s target of achieving net zero emissions by 2070.

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The country outlined its “Panchamrit” framework, committing to key milestones such as reaching 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030 and reducing emissions intensity by 45% compared to 2005 levels.

Entura’s expertise in pumped hydro energy storage aligns closely with these goals. This technology is vital for ensuring reliable, dispatchable power as India scales up renewable energy. ‘Pumped hydro will play a big part in India’s clean energy transition,’ says Rajeev Raina, Entura’s Team Manager and Resident Director in India.

‘The launch of the India-Australia Renewable Energy Partnership provides opportunities for companies like Entura to make a practical difference in the goals of both countries.’

India’s energy strategy also involves expanding renewable energy capacity, which has grown from 24 GW in 2014-15 to over 136 GW in 2024-25. With a target of 50% non-fossil fuel-based power generation by 2030, India is aggressively pursuing policies to decarbonise its power, industry, transport, and urban sectors. While coal remains a significant part of India’s energy mix for now, renewable energy is rapidly gaining ground.

Entura’s journey in India began in 2006, when the Tasmanian consultancy set up its Delhi office under a government-to-government initiative. Since then, the team has contributed to projects ranging from feasibility studies in Uttar Pradesh to advanced hydropower solutions. With the Entura Clean Energy and Water Institute (ECEWI), the company has delivered nearly 10,000 training hours, empowering Indian professionals with critical skills in hydropower, dams, and water infrastructure.

‘ECEWI allows us to transfer expertise to remote regions, upskill professionals, and share renewable energy insights,’ says Ashworth.

‘We are creating a skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of India’s energy transition.’

India’s net zero target, while ambitious, comes with challenges. The Long-term Strategy for Low Carbon Development (LT-LEDS) lacks detailed emissions pathways and relies heavily on carbon capture technologies. Coal remains critical for grid stability and energy security, but the government is committed to reducing its role over time. To achieve its goals, India has embraced green hydrogen, offshore wind, and battery storage while fostering international collaborations like the one with Entura.

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The stakes are high for a country vulnerable to climate change. With a population heavily reliant on agriculture, India’s policies must address the impacts of climate change on natural habitats, bio-resources, and food security. Yet, the nation’s track record inspires optimism. It has already reduced emissions intensity by 40% compared to 2005 levels and is on track to meet its 2030 goals.

Image: Entura consultants at a pumped hydro dam in India (Source: Austrade South Asia – LinkedIn)

For Entura, the opportunity to be part of this transformation is deeply rewarding. ‘We are proud of the work we’re doing in India,’ says Ashworth.

‘Our team in Delhi is contributing to hydro designs and renewable energy projects that advance both environmental and social outcomes. Together, we are making a tangible difference in the journey towards net zero.’

India’s energy transition is a monumental task, but with the support of partners like Entura and a growing arsenal of innovative policies and technologies, the country is well-positioned to lead the global shift towards a sustainable future.

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