India outlines energy storage, nuclear targets at BRICS meet

New Delhi: BRICS has called for diversified, resilient and transparent energy systems and supply chains, placing energy security at the centre of the bloc's cooperation agenda amid a push to balance rising demand with energy transition goals.

In a joint communique issued after a meeting of the energy ministers of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa on Thursday in New Delhi, the bloc stressed on the need for balanced and diversified energy mixes.

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Access to secure, reliable, affordable and sustainable energy, which is essential for economic growth, industrialisation, employment and improving living standards, remains the key focus of the countries.

The ministers identified a wide set of areas for deeper cooperation, spanning new technologies in fossil fuels, renewable energy, biofuels, hydrogen, energy storage, critical minerals, carbon capture technologies, digitalisation and energy efficiency.

They also reaffirmed the importance of affordable financing to support investments in these segments.

Union power minister Manohar Lal said developing countries require adequate time, resources and policy space to pursue sustainable development while meeting the aspirations of people.

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Lal highlighted India's ambitions to achieve more than 400 GWh of energy storage capacity by 2032 and 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047. He also pointed out India's achievement of 20% ethanol blending ahead of schedule and leadership in initiatives such as the Global Biofuels Alliance and the International Solar Alliance.

The communique said research and youth engagement would also remain part of the BRICS energy agenda.