On July 22, 2025, the Supreme Court of India directed the Ministry of Power to convene the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) and the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) to collaboratively formulate a unified plan for reducing carbon emissions in the power sector. The court emphasized the need for systematic and consistent efforts from all stakeholders, including policymakers, regulators, and participants in power generation, transmission, and distribution, to address this urgent requirement. The court noted that power generation contributes approximately 8% of carbon emissions, citing data indicating other sources such as construction activities account for 30% and crop residue burning for 3%.

The Ministry of Power must submit a joint affidavit within four weeks, detailing the existing legal framework and outlining an action plan for emission reduction. Concurrently, a plea before the National Green Tribunal (NGT) prompted the court to formally notify the CEA and CERC as respondents. The next hearing is scheduled for August 19 to review progress and ensure coordinated implementation of the plan.

The court reiterated its February 21, 2025, order recognizing climate change as an "existential global quandary," referencing current emission reduction efforts outlined in an affidavit from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. Within the Indian context, this directive aims to drive key institutions toward greater accountability and coordination in tackling emission challenges within this carbon-intensive sector.
url:https://www.energetica-india.net/news/supreme-court-calls-for-joint-action-plan-to-cut-power-sector-emissions