IEA and WEC India convene workshop in Paris to strengthen India’s power sector transformation

The International Energy Agency (IEA), in cooperation with the World Energy Council India (WEC India), hosted a three-day training workshop at the IEA headquarters in Paris from 4-6 November, bringing together senior Indian energy officials and IEA experts to exchange insights on managing the country’s rapidly evolving power system.

The event gathered professionals from across India’s power sector, including representatives from major public enterprises, utilities and government institutions. Professionals represented power generation, transmission, trading, and finance entities. Through a mix of analytical briefings and interactive discussions, participants explored key themes shaping India’s electricity system including renewable energy integration and transmission planning for energy storage, coal fleet flexibility, market reform and financing mechanisms for clean energy investments.

The workshop comes at a pivotal time for India’s power sector, which is undergoing profound transformation driven by rapid demand growth, ambitious emissions reductions targets, and the growing role of variable renewables. Sessions provided an opportunity to examine both global and domestic perspectives, with IEA experts sharing the latest analysis on energy system flexibility, technology deployment and investment trends, and participants contributing insights from India’s policy and operational experience.

By facilitating dialogue and knowledge sharing between Indian stakeholders and international experts, the workshop underscored the strong partnership between the IEA and India in advancing secure, sustainable and affordable energy for all.

In 2024, Ministers from the IEA’s member countries agreed to start discussions with India on the Indian government’s request to become a full IEA member, recognising the country’s strategic importance in tackling global energy and climate challenges.