Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav positioned solar energy as the definitive lifeline for Small Island Developing States facing existential climate threats, delivering a forceful call for global coordination at the High-Level Ministerial Leadership Session of the International Solar Alliance SIDS Platform on the sidelines of UNFCCC COP30 on Wednesday.

Addressing ministers and senior representatives from island nations, Yadav declared that solar power represents not just technology but “transformation and social revolution,” capable of ending crippling dependence on imported fossil fuels while delivering energy independence, dignity, and peace to communities battling rising seas and extreme weather.

Highlighting India’s own dramatic clean-energy surge under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, Yadav revealed that the country has surpassed 500 gigawatts of total installed electricity capacity, with more than half now non-fossil, achieving its 50 per cent clean-energy target five years ahead of schedule. India now ranks as the world’s fourth-largest renewable energy producer and third-largest solar power generator.

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The minister showcased flagship initiatives including the PM Surya Ghar Rooftop Solar Programme, which has transformed over 20 lakh households into mini power plants, and massive solar-plus-storage projects such as the Ladakh complex capable of powering an entire city after sunset. He presented these replicable models as ready-made solutions for SIDS seeking to slash diesel imports and build resilient grids.

Yadav reaffirmed India’s unwavering commitment through the 124-member International Solar Alliance, co-founded by Prime Minister Modi in 2015, which is mobilising over USD 1 trillion by 2030 while creating standardised procurement systems, blended finance mechanisms, and local capacity-building programmes specifically tailored for island nations. Representatives from SIDS warmly endorsed the ISA SIDS Platform as the critical vehicle to unlock renewable potential and secure a survivable future.

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