In a decisive move to accelerate India's clean energy transition, the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) unveiled three ambitious initiatives at a high-level event in New Delhi. These efforts—centred around financing, digitalization, and innovation—highlight the alliance’s commitment to addressing the country’s energy challenges as it strives to achieve its 500 GW renewable energy capacity goal.

The centrepiece of this announcement was the Multi-Donor Trust Fund (MDTF), a $100 million initiative in collaboration with the International Solar Alliance (ISA). With GEAPP providing governance oversight and expertise in energy transition, the MDTF aims to scale high-impact solar projects across ISA's member nations. “By aligning our efforts through partnership, we are better positioned to deliver sustainable and impactful solutions. The MDTF will grow into a powerful tool to deliver renewable energy access and support member countries’ climate and energy goals,” said Dr Ajay Mathur, director general of ISA.

Complementing this is DUET (Digitalization of Utilities for Energy Transition), a forward-looking programme designed to modernise India’s grid infrastructure. DUET will integrate digital tools, including smart sensors and real-time tracking systems, to reduce transmission and distribution losses. This initiative represents a critical step towards creating a resilient, technology-driven energy system capable of supporting the nation’s expanding renewable capacity.

Another cornerstone is ENTICE 2.0 (Energy Transitions Innovation Challenge), an extension of the first ENTICE programme launched in 2023. This initiative focuses on nurturing startups that can deliver scalable, investable solutions to accelerate India’s energy transition. ENTICE 2.0 will emphasise funding, mentorship, and market linkages, with its January 2025 launch expected to further energise India’s clean energy innovation landscape.

“We believe that the path to a sustainable and inclusive future lies in accelerating the transition to renewable energy, particularly in emerging markets that are poised to drive global change… Our initiatives aim to foster innovation and deliver scalable solutions that drive sustainable economic growth and empower communities,” said Woochong Um, CEO of GEAPP, at the event while articulating the alliance’s vision.

These announcements come at a pivotal time as India intensifies its efforts to decarbonise its economy and lead global climate action. By focusing on technology and financing gaps, GEAPP is positioning itself as a key player in India’s energy transition journey. The alliance’s initiatives are not merely about meeting targets but reshaping the framework of renewable energy adoption in emerging markets.

Saurabh Kumar, vice president of GEAPP India, also outlined a three-year roadmap, emphasising the importance of collaborative approaches in achieving these goals. With philanthropy, innovation, and strategic partnerships at its core, GEAPP’s approach underscores the potential of cross-sector alliances in addressing global energy challenges.