U.S.-India Strategic Clean Energy Partnership (SCEP)

Why in the news?

  • The S.-India Strategic Clean Energy Partnership (SCEP) Ministerial meeting was held in Washington D.C.
  • S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm and Indian Minister Hardeep Singh Puri reviewed ongoing initiatives under SCEP.

Key Initiatives Reviewed 

  • Focus on clean energy transitions, innovation, and resilient supply chains.
  • Launch of the Renewable Energy Technology Action Platform (RETAP) for hydrogen, offshore wind, and energy storage.
  • Collaboration on hydrogen safety and deployment of green hydrogen in transport sectors.
  • Support for India’s smart metering, grid modernization, and renewable energy initiatives.
  • Continued focus on energy efficiency, sustainable aviation fuels, and carbon capture technologies.

Significance of Partnership

  • Emphasis on decarbonization of high-emitting sectors, including transport and industry.
  • Joint efforts in research, development, and commercialization of clean energy technologies.
  • Expansion of public-private dialogues to boost investment in clean energy markets.
  • SCEP drives progress toward shared clean energy goals and addresses global climate challenges.

About Renewable Energy Technology Action Platform (RETAP):

  • Announcement: RETAP was launched in 2023 during Prime Minister Modi’s U.S. visit, aiming to strengthen collaboration on emerging clean energy technologies.
  • Purpose: The platform focuses on accelerating the deployment and scaling of new renewable technologies in a result-oriented, time-bound manner.
  • Initial Focus Areas: Includes green/clean hydrogen, wind energy, long-duration energy storage, geothermal, and ocean/tidal energy.

Guiding Themes:

  • Research & Development
  • Piloting & Testing of Innovative Technologies
  • Advanced Training & Skill Development
  • Policy & Planning for Renewable Energy Transition
  • Investment, Incubation, and Outreach Programs.

Associated Article:

https://universalinstitutions.com/strengthening-india-us-relations/