India, Germany actively working to deepen renewable energy ties: German envoy
New Delhi, July 9
India and Germany are working closely together in the renewable energy sector to create a more sustainable environment and this relationship will deepen going ahead, the German Ambassador to India, Philipp Ackermann said.
"It's a very, very good framework where India and Germany put together their thoughts, expertise, and knowledge in order to create a better and more sustainable general environment. This includes, of course, clean energy, and we are very actively working together with India in the clean energy field. In the years to come, we will increase and deepen this relationship between India and Germany," Ackermann told IANS in an exclusive interview.
On the importance of bringing women to the forefront to boost the energy sector, the Ambassador said, "So I think we have to think about it more, and this is a very good moment to reflect on it. I think we should perhaps include more thoughts in our deliberations on bringing women more to the forefront because, you know, the energy transition will not work without women."
He also highlighted the need for both Germany and India to diversify their energy sources amid the Middle East conflict as it is important reduce excessive dependence on the region to ensure energy security.
"So I think we have seen some concerning developments in the Middle East over the last couple of hours. We hope that diplomacy will prevail. We hope that people will get back to the table, debate, and find a solution without shooting at each other. That's very important for all of us -- India, but also Germany. But it also shows, look at your energy security, because you can't end up being completely dependent on what happens in this area," the Ambassador added.
While highlighting the need for a quick return to normalcy through diplomatic efforts so that the Strait of Hormuz stays open, Ackermann also said that under the circumstances it is more important than ever that we look at energy security.
"What happens in the Gulf now shows us that India and Germany, countries with little natural resources, must look into how you get your energy back home so that you are independent from foreign fossil fuels and other fuels. That is what we have to sit down with India and debate," he added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
The Middle East angle is crucial. We've seen how oil prices spike with every conflict. Diversification isn't just environmental—it's national security. Germany gets it, and India should double down too. No more fossil fuel dependency.
I appreciate the mention of women in energy transition. In India, many rural women manage household energy needs. Giving them skills in solar installation or biogas management could transform villages. Let's see some concrete programs, not just speeches.
The Strait of Hormuz comment is spot on. Any disruption there hits India hard. Germany and India should jointly invest in domestic battery storage and green hydrogen. That's real energy independence, not just political talk.
Good intentions, but Germany itself is struggling with its Energiewende (energy transition) due to high costs and grid issues. India should learn from both their successes and failures. We cannot afford expensive experiments when millions still lack reliable power.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.