India is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the global energy landscape, contributing to 35 percent of the world’s energy demand growth over the next two decades.

This assertion was made by India’s Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas, Hardeep Sigh Puri, during the 52nd Gastech Exhibition & Conference, held at the George R. Brown Convention Centre on Tuesday.

The multinational conference, themed “Transforming Energy through Vision, Innovation, and Action,” brought together global energy leaders to discuss strategies for maintaining energy stability while accelerating DE carbonization.

In his keynote address, Minister Puri emphasized India’s role as a growing force in the global energy ecosystem.

He framed the nation’s challenges as an ‘energy trilemma”, underlining the need to balance three crucial factors: energy availability, affordability, and a successful green transition. Puri highlighted how India’s expanding energy demand, coupled with its efforts to move toward a cleaner, greener economy, positions the country as a critical player in the global energy equation. 

The conference opened with a high-profile ministerial panel featuring energy ministers from India, the United States, Egypt, Nigeria, and Turkey. The officials deliberated on the geopolitical and industrial challenges currently affecting energy supply chains and the shift toward sustainable energy. Geoffrey Pyatt, the USz Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources, spoke on America’s role in stabilizing global energy flows and fostering international cooperation, especially in light of the pressing need for clean energy alternatives. 

Egyptian Minister Karim Badawi focused on Egypt’s strategic importance as an energy gateway, emphasizing the importance of creating an investment-friendly environment to attract global energy players. Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, shared insights on Africs’s unique opportunities in natural gas, reinforcing the continent’s potential to contribute significantly to global energy needs. 

Top industry leaders also contributed to the discussion. Chevron CEO Mike Writh called for continued dialogue around future energy needs, emphasizing that collaboration between nations is essential for securing stable energy supplies. Cheniere Energy CEO Jack Fusco echoed these sentiments, adding that businesses must adapt to the ever-evolving energy demands and climate goals.

The Gastech 2024 conference underscored the growing importance of international cooperation and innovation in addressing the world’s energy challenges. With India poised to be a key contributor to future energy growth, its policies and initiatives will undoubtedly play a central role in shaping global energy strategies.