Topic: GS3 – Economy – Infrastructure

Understanding India’s renewable energy goals, financing mechanisms, and global energy discourse enhances knowledge for UPSC’s environment and economy sections.

India’s Key Targets:

●  India’s key targets are referred to as the “Panchamrit,” which outlines India’s key objectives and targets regarding its climate action plan.

● India aims for 500 GW non-fossil energy by 2030.

● India targets sourcing 50% energy from renewables by 2030.

● India plans to cut one billion tonnes of carbon emissions by 2030.

● India aims for a 45% reduction in carbon intensity by 2030.

● India aspires to achieve net zero emissions by 2070.

Need for Transition towards Renewable Energy:

● Climate Change Mitigation: Transitioning to renewable energy is crucial for mitigating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel-based energy sources.

● Energy Security: Diversifying the energy mix with renewable sources enhances India’s energy security, reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels and mitigating geopolitical risks.

● Air Pollution Reduction: Adoption of renewable energy helps to reduce air pollution and improve air quality, addressing public health concerns and reducing healthcare costs.

● Economic Growth: Investing in renewable energy promotes economic growth, job creation, and innovation in clean energy technologies, contributing to sustainable development.

● Rural Electrification: Renewable energy offers a decentralized energy solution for rural electrification, providing access to electricity in remote and off-grid areas.

Challenges:

● Intermittency: The intermittent nature of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind poses challenges for grid stability and reliability, requiring energy storage and grid management solutions.

● Grid Integration: Integrating renewable energy into existing grids requires upgrades and modifications to accommodate variable generation patterns and ensure seamless integration.

● Investment and Financing: Securing investment and financing for renewable energy projects, including capital-intensive infrastructure and technology, remains a challenge.

●  Policy and Regulatory Uncertainty: Uncertain policy frameworks, regulatory barriers, and inconsistent government support hinder investment and deployment of renewable energy projects.

● Land Use Conflicts: Large-scale renewable energy projects may face opposition from local communities due to land use conflicts, environmental concerns, and displacement issues.

● Technological Barriers: Technological challenges such as storage limitations, efficiency improvements, and grid stability need to be addressed to enhance the viability of renewable energy solutions.

Way Forward:

● Policy Support: Provide stable policy frameworks, incentives, and subsidies to promote renewable energy deployment and attract investment.

●  Investment in Infrastructure: Invest in renewable energy infrastructure, grid modernization, and energy storage technologies to support the transition.

● Capacity Building: Build institutional capacity, workforce skills, and research and development capabilities in renewable energy technologies.

● Public Awareness: Raise awareness among stakeholders about the benefits of renewable energy and the need for sustainable energy practices.

● International Cooperation: Collaborate with international partners, organisations, and initiatives to share best practices, technology transfer, and capacity-building efforts.

● Innovation and Research: Foster innovation, research, and development in renewable energy technologies to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and overcome technical challenges.