The potential future development pathways for India’s primary energy demand are shown in Figure 6.84 for both the Reference and Energy [R]evolution Scenarios. Under the Reference Scenario, total primary energy demand quadruples from the current 22,300 PJ/a to 89,100 PJ/a in 2050. In the Energy [R]evolution Scenario, by contrast, demand will increase by about 230 % and is expected to reach 52,000 PJ/a by 2050.

Under the Energy [R]evolution Scenario, electricity demand is expected to increase substantially (see Figure 6.85). With the exploitation of efficiency measures, however, a higher increase can be avoided, leading to demand of around 3,500 TWh/a in 2050. Compared to the Reference Scenario, efficiency measures avoid the generation of about 1,410 TWh/a. This reduction can be achieved in particular by introducing highly efficient electronic devices using the best available technology in all demand sectors.

Efficiency gains for heat and cooling supply are also significant. Under the Energy [R]evolution Scenario, final demand for heating and cooling can even be reduced (see Figure 6.86). Compared to the Reference Scenario, consumption equivalent to 3,130 PJ/a is avoided through efficiency gains by 2050.

In the transport sector it is assumed that a fast growing economy will see energy demand, even under the Energy [R]evolution Scenario, increase dramatically - from 1,550 PJ/a in 2005 to 8,700 PJ/a by 2050. This still saves 50% compared to the Reference Scenario. This reduction can be achieved by the introduction of highly efficient vehicles, shifting freight transport from road to rail and by changes in travel behaviour.