Even as it consistently refuses to undertake emission reduction commitments under the pressure of developed countries, India has taken a major step towards fulfilling its climate change responsibilities by deciding to cut its energy intensity by 20 per cent over the next five years.

Energy intensity is the energy that goes into producing one dollar of GDP. Lower energy intensity means lesser consumption of energy for same amount of economic activity, and therefore lower emissions.

As of now, India consumes about 0.15 kg of oil equivalent (kgoe) per dollar of its GDP. Experts say it can be brought down to about 0.12 kgoe per dollar, making India one of the most energy-efficient countries in the world.

“Areas of action by India (on climate change) include initiatives in clean energy including renewable energy and action to increase energy efficiency. In this context, one of the monitorable objectives of the Eleventh Plan is to reduce the energy intensity per unit of GDP by 20 per cent over the Plan period,” says the 11th Plan paper of the Planning Commission which was recently approved by the Cabinet.

The issue would now be put before the National Development Council meeting next week where chief ministers of all states would be present.

India’s energy intensity has been showing a declining trend over the years and the planned cut will accelerate the decline. Still, this move by the Government is extremely significant considering it is the first time that India is planning a targeted cut in its energy intensity.

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