Asik SyedIndia’s Energy Transition Index performance in 2025 reflects both progress and emerging challenges. In the latest report released by the World Economic Forum (WEF), India is ranked 71st out of 118 countries, a drop from its 63rd position in 2024.
The Energy Transition Index measures how well countries are advancing toward a sustainable, secure, and inclusive energy system. Despite the slip in rank, India has shown consistent improvement in critical areas like energy access, transition readiness, and clean energy initiatives.
Both India and China demonstrated significant strides in their clean energy transitions, even as global rankings evolved. India’s focus on expanding renewable energy, strengthening grid infrastructure, and improving rural energy access continues to shape its long-term sustainability goals.
Global Leaders in the Index
At the top of the list are Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Norway, and Switzerland, reflecting strong performance across energy sustainability, security, and equity. China holds the 12th spot, the United States ranks 17th, while Pakistan is positioned at 101st. Congo ranks lowest, underscoring disparities in global energy systems. The leading five countries together represent a major share of global GDP, emissions, and population—making them key drivers of the global energy transition.
India’s Energy Transition Index Highlights
India continues to make meaningful progress, particularly in energy equity. Policies that expand access to electricity and clean cooking fuels, especially in rural regions, have had a significant impact. Investments in renewable energy and improvements in regulatory frameworks have also enhanced both energy security and grid reliability.
Key Influencers of India’s Performance
Several factors played a role in shaping India’s 2025 ranking:
- Strengthened grid reliability
- Expanded rural energy access
- Efforts to reduce dependence on energy imports
- Boosted renewable energy infrastructure
These have collectively improved India’s transition readiness, although gaps remain that must be addressed.
Achievements in Efficiency and Investment
India has demonstrated strong performance in energy efficiency and investment capabilities:
- Lowered energy intensity and methane emissions
- Encouraged private and public investment through favourable regulations
- Strengthened commitment to sustainable energy development
Global Progress and Gaps
In 2025, 77 out of 118 countries saw improvements in their overall scores. Yet, only 28% progressed across all three pillars of energy transition: security, sustainability, and equity. While the U.S. leads in energy security, India stands out for its gains in efficiency and investment readiness.
Remaining Challenges
Despite forward movement, hurdles remain:
- Geopolitical instability
- Insufficient investment in deployment of clean technologies
- Innovation-to-implementation gaps, particularly in underdeveloped areas
Such challenges could slow the pace of global energy transformation unless strategically addressed.
The Road Ahead
The WEF’s Fostering Effective Energy Transition 2025 report outlines future priorities:
- Strengthening political commitment
- Enhancing financial support
- Accelerating technological innovation
- Building awareness and capacity through education
Addressing these readiness pillars is crucial for India—and the world—to secure a cleaner, more resilient energy future.
Neha Baruah
Tazrin Jakaria
Asik Syed
Pinki Borah