- Electricity Demand: Expected to rise by 8% in 2025, showcasing rapid economic growth.
- Renewable Energy Target: Ambitious goal of 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030.
- Recent Achievements: Added 24.2 GW of renewable energy capacity in 2023-24.
Key Developments
Decentralized Energy Access
- Solar Mini-Grids: Initiatives like Tata Power’s micro-grids are providing electricity to 10,000 underserved villages.
- PM-KUSUM Scheme: Supports solar-powered irrigation, reducing agricultural electricity subsidies.
Energy Storage Solutions
- Investments in Battery Systems: JSW Group aims for 50 GWh manufacturing capacity by 2030.
- Global Energy Alliance: Deploying energy storage solutions to stabilize the grid.
Electrifying Mobility
- Electric Vehicle (EV) Adoption: Target of 30% penetration by 2030; EV sales hit over 1.5 million in 2023.
- FAME II Scheme: Promotes electric buses and infrastructure.
Global Leadership
- International Solar Alliance (ISA): Aims to unlock USD 1 trillion in solar investments by 2030.
- COP29 Advocacy: Push for equitable energy funding and access to green technology.
Balancing Energy Security
- Coal Dependency: Coal’s share in power generation dropped below 50%, but remains crucial during peak demand.
- Government’s Approach: Phased transition to renewables while ensuring energy security.
Energy Efficiency Initiatives
- PAT Scheme: Saved over 68 million tonnes of CO2 emissions.
- UJALA Scheme: Distributed over 36 crore LED bulbs, saving Rs 19,153 crore annually.
Offshore Wind Potential
- New Projects Approved: 1 GW offshore wind projects in Tamil Nadu and Gujarat.
- Target: 140 GW capacity by 2030.
Private Sector Participation
- Adani Group’s Plans: 10 GW hydroelectric projects aimed at net-zero emissions by 2050.
- Reliance Industries: Converting trucks to hydrogen ICE.
Challenges in Energy Transition
Intermittency & Reliability
- Storage Infrastructure: Only 33 MW capacity despite generating 213 GW of renewable energy.
- Recent Blackouts: Highlight the need for better grid stability.
Coal Reliance
- Sustained Dominance: Coal remains important for electricity generation despite renewable growth.
Financial Support Gaps
- Funding Needs: USD 10.1 trillion required for net-zero emissions by 2070.
- Delay in Subsidies: Affects solar irrigation adoption.
Grid Infrastructure Issues
- Aging Infrastructure: Struggles to accommodate increasing renewable energy share.
- Green Energy Corridor Delays: Hinders effective grid connectivity.
Energy Access Inequality
- Unelectrified Households: 2.4% remain without electricity, mainly in rural areas.
Imported Technology Dependence
- Vulnerability: Heavy reliance on imports for solar modules and wind turbines.
Land and Environmental Issues
- Community Conflicts: Large land requirements for renewable projects lead to protests.
Measures for Sustainable Transition
Domestic Manufacturing
- Strengthening Local Production: Expand the PLI scheme for solar and battery manufacturing.
Green Hydrogen Initiatives
- Decarbonization Potential: Focus on developing hydrogen hubs near renewable zones.
Modernizing Infrastructure
- Smart Grid Investments: Enhanced efficiency through smart technologies.
Circular Economy Integration
- Resource Efficiency: Promote recycling of solar panels and wind turbine materials.
Just Transition for Coal Regions
- Support for Workers: Skill development and alternative employment programs.
Energy Storage Expansion
- Technological Investments: Focus on scalable energy storage solutions.
Agrivoltaics
- Dual Land Use: Solar panels over crops to benefit farmers and improve energy access.
Waste Heat Recovery
- Energy Savings: Implement recovery systems in energy-intensive industries.
Exploring Small Modular Reactors
- Nuclear Energy: Partnering for clean energy solutions.
Carbon Capture Support
- Decarbonization Technologies: Policies to promote CCU in industries.
Urban Energy Transition
- Sustainable Infrastructure: Integrate energy efficiency in urban planning.
Geothermal and Biomass Utilization
- Diverse Energy Mix: Explore geothermal projects and biomass for heating.
Corporate Renewable Procurement
- Mandates for Corporates: Encourage private sector participation in renewable energy.
Vision for Sustainability: India aims for a sustainable, inclusive energy future through clean technologies and strong policy frameworks, addressing challenges to ensure equitable benefits for all.