Sunday, 22 September 2024

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the US in September 2024 highlighted several strategic and forward-looking discussions with US President Joe Biden, particularly focusing on deepening collaboration in clean energy, regional security, and global initiatives under the framework of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad). This trip underscored the mutual commitment of both nations to strengthen their Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, with a special emphasis on the clean energy supply chain—a priority for both countries as they seek to meet ambitious climate and economic goals.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the US in September 2024 highlighted several strategic and forward-looking discussions with US President Joe Biden, particularly focusing on deepening collaboration in clean energy, regional security, and global initiatives under the framework of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad). This trip underscored the mutual commitment of both nations to strengthen their Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, with a special emphasis on the clean energy supply chain—a priority for both countries as they seek to meet ambitious climate and economic goals.

### Clean Energy Supply Chain and Net-Zero Goals

At the heart of Modi and Biden's discussions was the creation of resilient clean energy supply chains, which are vital to both India's and the US's energy transition plans. India has committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070, while the US is aiming for significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. The focus on clean energy in these discussions reflects the urgent need for both nations to scale up technologies and materials needed for renewable energy production, particularly in areas like solar energy, wind power, and advanced energy storage systems【7†source】.

A crucial aspect of this partnership involves ensuring a stable supply of critical minerals—such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel—that are essential for the manufacturing of batteries and electric vehicles. By jointly working on secure and sustainable supply chains for these materials, India and the US aim to mitigate the risks of supply disruptions and foster innovation in green technologies like hydrogen energy and carbon capture【7†source】【8†source】.

### Key Proposals and Collaborative Frameworks

During the Quad Summit, the leaders from India, the US, Japan, and Australia discussed furthering collaboration in clean energy under the "Clean Energy Supply Chain Initiative." This initiative seeks to enhance the capacity of Quad countries to prevent disruptions in energy supplies, making them more resilient to geopolitical shocks and market volatility【8†source】. The partnership is expected to boost research, development, and deployment of next-generation energy technologies, including advancements in hydrogen fuels and energy efficiency.

In addition to the clean energy collaboration, Prime Minister Modi’s visit also saw discussions on the importance of aligning strategic objectives in the Indo-Pacific. The Quad countries are keen to promote regional stability, countering China's growing influence, while simultaneously pushing for sustainable economic growth through innovations in energy and technology【7†source】.

### Present Situation and Future Projections

The clean energy initiatives between India and the US are part of broader efforts to reduce global reliance on fossil fuels, stabilize energy markets, and meet international climate commitments such as those outlined in the Paris Agreement. Currently, India's renewable energy capacity is rapidly expanding, with over 40% of its installed electricity capacity now derived from non-fossil sources. With the support of strategic partners like the US, India is projected to further accelerate this growth, especially in emerging sectors such as green hydrogen and carbon-neutral industrial processes【8†source】.

Looking forward, experts anticipate that the India-US clean energy partnership will result in significant economic benefits for both countries. For India, this could mean enhanced access to advanced technologies, increased foreign direct investment in the energy sector, and job creation in renewable energy industries. The US, on the other hand, stands to benefit from access to India’s vast market and its growing renewable energy infrastructure【8†source】.

### Quad’s Broader Geopolitical Context

The discussions during Modi’s visit were also set against the backdrop of global challenges such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the need for energy security amidst fluctuating global oil and gas prices. By deepening their clean energy cooperation, India and the US seek to reduce dependency on fossil fuels, particularly from geopolitically unstable regions. Moreover, the Quad grouping remains committed to ensuring a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, where clean energy infrastructure and sustainability play a key role in the region’s development【7†source】【8†source】.

### Future Expectations

Projections for the future of India-US collaboration in clean energy are optimistic, with both countries likely to play a leading role in shaping the global energy landscape. By focusing on joint innovation, research, and development, both nations are expected to address critical issues such as climate change, energy poverty, and technological leadership in emerging green sectors.

Overall, Modi’s visit to the US laid the foundation for a robust clean energy partnership, aligning with global climate goals while reinforcing strategic ties through the Quad’s cooperative framework. This meeting sets the stage for long-term collaboration, with clear expectations for enhanced research, secure supply chains, and the development of sustainable energy solutions【7†source】【8†source】.

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