The International Day of Clean Energy was observed on January 26, 2026; its first observance was on January 26, 2024. It was declared by the UN General Assembly through resolution A/RES/77/327 to promote awareness about just and inclusive energy transitions. The core exam takeaway is that clean energy is not only a technology issue; it is also linked with development, climate policy, energy access and equity. India highlighted that 51% of its installed electricity capacity was from non-fossil fuel sources.
For RAS and UPSC preparation, this topic connects science and technology with economy, environment and international organisations. The day also connects with the Paris Agreement and SDG 7, which focuses on access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy. In prelims, questions may test the date, the UN General Assembly resolution number, the objective of the day and India's non-fossil capacity achievement. For broader preparation, it is useful to study energy security, climate policy, inclusive growth and India's 2030 energy commitments together.
For static-GK linkage, read this with India's updated Nationally Determined Contribution. India's updated NDC includes commitments to reduce the emissions intensity of GDP by 45% from 2005 levels by 2030, achieve 50% cumulative electric power capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030, create an additional carbon sink of 2.5-3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent through forest cover by 2030, and reach Net Zero by 2070. Related references include the International Renewable Energy Agency, PM Surya Ghar, PM Kusum, the National Solar Mission and the Green Hydrogen Mission.