INDIA-UAE ENERGY RELATIONS IN THE AGE OF RENEWABLES: A STUDY FROM A GEOPOLITICAL PERSPECTIVE

VERMA Sudheer Singh (Assistant Professor, Department of South and Central Asian Studies, School of International Studies, Central University of Punjab, V.P.O.–Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab, India), sudheers.verma@cup.edu.in
SHAHANAS Yadal (M.A. Student, Department of South and Central Asian Studies, School of International Studies, Central University of Punjab, V.P.O.–Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab, India), yadalskp@gmail.com

This article examines the nature of India’s energy relationship with the UAE. It analyses how both countries are navigating collaboration in the energy transition areas concerning global climate action to meet the targets of the Paris Agreement. Furthermore, it analyses to what extent cooperation on renewable energy serves the geopolitical interests of both countries. Integrating renewable energy into the energy portfolio is crucial to mitigating the climate crisis, necessitating international cooperation in finance, technology, and infrastructure development. India and the UAE pursue energy security for distinct motivations. India relies on imports to meet energy demands, while shifts in US energy policy impact the UAE’s economic stability. The UAE’s economy, heavily reliant on crude oil reserves, faces pivotal challenges due to increasing calls for energy transition and regional geopolitical changes. These factors have driven both countries to invest in renewable energy sectors. This article argues that both countries seek pathways to integrate renewable energy into their energy portfolios. Consequently, the UAE can maintain its status as a major energy supplier and reap the geopolitical advantage associated with the label. India can reduce its dependency on energy imports while meeting the increasing energy demands. Simultaneously, both countries are meeting the climate action objectives set by the Paris Agreement.

Keywords: Energy Relations; energy security; geopolitics; renewable energy; India, United Arab Emirates