Mukesh Ambani: India Can Achieve 80% Energy Self-Sufficiency in Next Decade

India could meet nearly 80% of its energy needs domestically within the next ten years, according to Reliance Industries Chairman and MD Mukesh Ambani. Speaking at a JioBlackRock event in Mumbai on February 4, Ambani said heavy investments in renewable energy, infrastructure, and technology will drive India toward energy independence.

Current Dependence on Imports

India, the world’s third-largest consumer of crude oil after the US and China, currently imports over 80% of its energy requirements, leaving it vulnerable to global disruptions. The government has set a target of 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030 to cut import bills, reduce emissions, and strengthen self-reliance.

Path to Energy Independence

Ambani emphasized that India has already emerged as a leading renewable power producer. With further investments in physical infrastructure and technological breakthroughs, he believes India will significantly reduce its dependence on imports.

“In the next decade, India will not import 80% of its energy. We have a path, and with today’s technology, we will be reasonably self-sufficient,” Ambani said.

Building Infrastructure and Intelligence

Ambani highlighted the need to scale both physical and technological infrastructure for India’s 1.4 billion population. He stressed that every village must have access to intelligence infrastructure, ensuring the country is not left behind in global advancements.

Economic Growth and Startup Ecosystem

Ambani noted that India’s economy is entering a phase of sustainable growth, supported by policy stability and fiscal discipline. He predicted that India’s booming startup ecosystem could give rise to “100 new Reliances” in the coming years.

Household Savings and Technology Adoption

Ambani urged households to channel savings more productively, pointing out that India imported $60 billion worth of gold and $10–15 billion of silver last year, primarily as a store of wealth. He also emphasized embracing emerging technologies like AI across education, healthcare, and digital infrastructure to sustain long-term growth.