Economic growth has increased dependence on fossil fuels leading to a drastic increase in global atmospheric concentrations of CO2. The consequences of this are already being felt across the world: extreme weather fluctuations, widespread melting of glaciers, and rising sea levels. At the same time, our energy needs are constantly on the rise. I strongly advocate that companies be the drivers of change, and take the responsibility to spearhead energy efficient, green products and solutions.

Renewable energy is one such solution. Wind energy for example can be generated locally and distributed directly to the local distribution network (known as embedded generation). The distance over which electricity has to travel is reduced, meaning less electrical losses in transmission and distribution, and therefore saving energy.

Additionally, wind energy sector contributes to sustainable development and job creation. At the end of 2009 more than 600,000 people were employed in the wind energy sector globally. That is equivalent to almost 15 jobs per megawatt (MW) installed. Importantly the tax revenue generated by wind energy contributes to the development of community in the form of better schools and health amenities.

The private sector is the development catalyst of any economy. The private-sector needs to employ both green solutions and also maintain sustained investment into research and development. Suzlon for example is focused on continual development of turbine technology that is not only cost efficient but also more energy efficient.

The principal message from Suzlon for Rio +20 is that electricity is a basic human right, and we need innovative solutions to assure affordable energy to all.

For further updates please read Tulsi Tanti's blog: www.green-global.net