An energy transition is already underway in India, driven by a rapid fall in prices of renewable energy, rise in prices of coal-based electricity, and increasing environmental and climate-change related pressures. This does not imply that India will stop depending on coal anytime soon, but the share of coal in India’s energy is likely to reduce gradually. Given the various linkages of the coal sector with other sectors, the transition away from coal is likely to be complex and hence merits beginning a conversation. In this context, Prayas (Energy Group) and Centre for Policy Research organised a roundtable on 20 December 2019, to explore and understand the issues around India’s transition away from coal. Twenty-three participants from various organisations, representing research groups, grassroots organizations, trade unions and consultancy organisations attended the event. The deliberations were carried out as per the Chatham House rules. The event was structured into three sessions on the following broad and overlapping themes:
- People and communities
- Resources and restoration
- Finance and politics.