India’s rapid transition to electric mobility is serving as a model for other emerging economies aiming to embrace clean transportation, Philip Metzger, Secretary General and CEO of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), said in an interview with ANI on Tuesday.
“India is shifting rapidly toward electric mobility. I’ve personally been travelling in electric vehicles during my stay in Delhi, and it’s clear the transition is already underway,” Metzger noted.
He emphasized that electric vehicles (EVs) are playing a crucial role in combating climate change and urban air pollution.
“E-mobility is one of our core areas. We’ve developed a globally recognised portfolio of standards covering EV charging infrastructure, battery systems, and energy efficiency,” he said. “These standards are essential for making electric vehicles safe, scalable, and accessible.”
Electric mobility featured prominently at the IEC’s annual general meeting, held in New Delhi and hosted by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). The global gathering brought together experts from over 80 countries to discuss international standards for clean energy, battery technologies, and transport electrification.
The IEC has created critical standards that address battery safety, fast and interoperable charging, and integration with the power grid—components seen as vital to building a robust EV ecosystem. As India expands its EV footprint, such standards will help ensure safety, efficiency, and alignment with global best practices.
“We are laying the foundation for transport solutions that are not only clean but also inclusive and reliable,” Metzger added.
Metzger praised BIS as a key member of the IEC, playing a pivotal role in the organisation’s direction through its board presence and active participation in technical committees.
The IEC’s broader mission involves advancing electrotechnology, clean energy, and energy efficiency to combat climate change and promote global sustainability. The body also collaborates with other organisations to improve standardisation and conformity assessment—efforts highlighted through IEC’s presence at major international events such as COP summits.
Metzger also stressed the importance of involving the younger generation in standardisation processes to drive innovation and inclusivity. The IEC is also working to empower more women in leadership roles within the sector.
Survey Reveals Strong Public Support for Sustainability in India
James Wood, Director of Communications at IEC, shared insights from a recent global survey conducted by the organisation, highlighting public support for sustainability and renewable energy.
“Around 83% of global respondents consider environmental sustainability to be important or very important,” Wood said. “In the four emerging markets surveyed—Brazil, Egypt, India, and South Africa—this figure rises to 94% in India, the highest among the group.”
The survey also revealed that 86% of respondents globally believe it is important or very important for their countries to transition to renewable or sustainable energy solutions, such as solar, wind, and hydro. Support was highest in emerging markets at 91%, compared to 75% in developed markets such as Canada, France, Germany, and Singapore.
