Enablers of net-zero transition: A holistic model of energy policy, innovation and infrastructure

Abstract This study examines the enablers of progress towards net-zero emissions in emerging economies, focusing on the roles of renewable energy integration and energy policy support. Using structural equation modelling on survey data from 935 diverse respondents across India, the study finds that both renewable energy integration and energy policy support have significant positive impacts on net-zero progress. The analysis reveals two key mediating pathways: first, technology adoption and innovation mediate between renewable energy integration and net-zero progress; second, community awareness and participation mediate between energy policy support and net-zero progress. Economic and infrastructure constraints moderate the relationship between energy policy support and net-zero progress. Importance-performance map analysis indicates that while renewable energy, policy support and economic factors are highly important, their effectiveness may be limited by infrastructural and governance challenges. The findings suggest that policymakers should adopt a holistic approach that simultaneously addresses technological, social, economic and institutional dimensions. This study contributes to the net-zero transition literature by developing and validating an integrated model that incorporates technical, social, policy and institutional aspects. Limitations include the cross-sectional nature and single-country focus, suggesting opportunities for future longitudinal and cross-country studies.