India and US Strengthen Clean Energy Ties with ISA-USAID Partnership

In a landmark step to tackle the climate crisis and advance renewable energy technologies, the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This collaboration aims to establish sustainable energy systems, expand renewable energy adoption, and promote global energy interconnections for a greener future.

Key Objectives: Expanding Clean Energy Networks Globally

The MoU focuses on developing clean energy transmission networks in South Asia, the Persian Gulf, Southeast Asia, and Africa. By strengthening cross-border energy trade, the partnership seeks to ensure energy security and greater access to affordable, renewable power across regions.

This collaboration aligns with ISA’s ambitious "One Sun, One World, One Grid" (OSOWOG) initiative, which envisions a unified global energy grid facilitating the large-scale transfer of solar energy across continents.

Harnessing Combined Expertise for a Greener Future

ISA, co-founded by India and France in 2015, has been pivotal in mobilizing investments and promoting solar adoption worldwide. USAID, with its extensive experience in sustainable energy solutions, will contribute technical expertise and innovative financing tools to accelerate the partnership’s goals.

Dr. Ajay Mathur, Director General of ISA, emphasized:

“This MoU shall jointly endeavour to accelerate trans-regional electricity grid interconnections, enhance regional power system planning, and mobilize investments for cross-border clean energy trade.”

Dr. Steven Olive, USAID Mission Director, remarked:

“This partnership reflects our commitment to promoting global clean energy transitions, driving economic growth, and addressing the climate crisis.”

Commitment to Global Clean Energy Transition

This agreement reinforces the US-India joint statement of September 2024, which identified clean energy collaboration as a cornerstone of bilateral relations. By integrating regional and transcontinental energy systems, the partnership supports shared efforts to combat climate change, enhance energy security, and accelerate renewable energy adoption globally.

The International Solar Alliance

Headquartered in Gurugram, India, the ISA boasts 120 member countries dedicated to advancing solar power as a sustainable energy solution. Its mission to unlock $1 trillion in solar investments by 2030 underscores its commitment to a carbon-neutral future. The organization actively promotes solar use in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, transportation, and power generation.

This partnership represents a significant step toward building resilient and sustainable energy systems that benefit communities worldwide.