India and Australia have officially launched the Renewable Energy Partnership (REP), marking a significant step in their commitment to sustainable energy and climate action. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Australian counterpart, Anthony Albanese, announced the initiative during their second annual bilateral summit, held alongside the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro.
A Framework for Climate Cooperation
The REP aims to accelerate renewable energy development in key areas such as solar photovoltaic (PV), green hydrogen, energy storage, and workforce training. In their joint statement, both leaders emphasized that this collaboration would leverage their nations’ complementary capabilities to advance their climate goals. The framework is designed to encourage two-way investment in renewable projects, laying the groundwork for long-term economic and environmental benefits.
Prime Minister Albanese described the partnership as a milestone in their shared vision for energy transition. “We are doing so much work together to drive renewable energy transition to meet our net-zero targets,” he said, highlighting the partnership’s focus on fostering innovation and investment in clean energy technologies.
Expanding Strategic Ties
The Renewable Energy Partnership is the latest addition to the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries. This broader framework includes cooperation in defence, security, trade, education, skills development, sports, space exploration, and people-to-people connections. Modi lauded the progress in bilateral relations, pointing to an increase in trade by 40% since the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) took effect.
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“This was my 11th meeting with my friend Albanese in just two years, a testament to the new energy in India-Australia relations,” Modi stated. Albanese, in turn, underscored the growing trust and potential in their partnership, particularly in areas like renewable energy and the Indo-Pacific region.
Renewable Energy: A Shared Vision
The REP also introduces initiatives to train young technicians, exemplified by the upcoming India-Australia Rooftop Solar Academy. Scheduled for launch next year, this program will train 2,000 Indian technicians in solar PV technology through a partnership with Australia’s Skill Council for Green Jobs and the private sector.
Both nations view this collaboration as essential for achieving their ambitious net-zero emission targets. The partnership reflects their recognition of renewable energy not only as an environmental necessity but also as an economic opportunity to create jobs and spur technological advancements.
A Path to a Greener Future
This initiative underscores the commitment of India and Australia to address global climate challenges. By investing in sustainable energy and building a skilled workforce, the two nations aim to strengthen their economies while contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.
As the partnership unfolds, it is set to deepen ties between India and Australia, demonstrating how collaboration can drive innovation and deliver solutions to one of humanity’s most pressing challenges.