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Energy Resources

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Home/Economic Geography/Energy Resources

Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions

Maanas Deshmukh
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Maanas DeshmukhBegginer
Asked: September 14, 2024In:
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What are the implications for India’s geopolitical strategy and economic stability of its reliance on foreign energy resources?

upsc: energy resources
  1. Moksh Patel
    Moksh Patel Begginer

    India's dependence on imported energy resources has significant implications for its geopolitical strategy and economic stability. This reliance on external sources for essential energy needs shapes India’s foreign policy, economic planning, and overall strategic posture. Here’s an analysis of how tRead more

    India’s dependence on imported energy resources has significant implications for its geopolitical strategy and economic stability. This reliance on external sources for essential energy needs shapes India’s foreign policy, economic planning, and overall strategic posture. Here’s an analysis of how this dependence affects India:

    1. Geopolitical Strategy

    1. Foreign Relations and Diplomacy
      • Strategic Partnerships: India’s energy needs drive its diplomatic engagements with energy-rich countries. For example, India has developed strategic partnerships with nations in the Middle East, Central Asia, and Africa to secure stable energy supplies. This includes collaborations in energy production, exploration, and infrastructure development.
      • Geopolitical Tensions: Dependence on imports can lead to vulnerabilities in geopolitical relationships. Tensions or conflicts in key energy-producing regions can disrupt supply chains and impact India’s energy security. For example, geopolitical instability in the Middle East or Central Asia can affect oil and gas imports.
    2. Energy Security and Strategic Alliances
      • Diversification of Sources: To mitigate risks associated with dependence on any single region, India pursues diversification of energy sources. This includes investing in energy partnerships with a range of countries and exploring alternative supply routes, such as through pipelines from Central Asia or LNG imports from the U.S.
      • Strategic Reserves: India has developed strategic petroleum reserves to safeguard against potential disruptions in oil supplies. These reserves are part of a broader strategy to enhance energy security and reduce the impact of geopolitical uncertainties.
    3. Regional Influence
      • Influence in Neighboring Regions: India’s energy needs influence its regional strategies, including its relationships with neighboring countries. Energy diplomacy can be a tool for strengthening ties with neighbors and enhancing regional stability. For example, energy cooperation with countries like Bangladesh and Myanmar includes investments in cross-border energy infrastructure.

    2. Economic Stability

    1. Price Volatility and Economic Impact
      • Fluctuations in Global Energy Prices: Dependence on imported energy makes India vulnerable to fluctuations in global energy prices. Price volatility can affect domestic inflation, trade balances, and economic stability. For instance, spikes in oil prices can increase the cost of imports and contribute to inflationary pressures.
      • Balance of Payments: High energy import costs can impact the balance of payments and trade deficits. A significant portion of India’s trade deficit is attributed to energy imports, which affects overall economic stability and fiscal health.
    2. Energy Costs and Industrial Competitiveness
      • Impact on Industry: Rising energy costs due to import dependency can affect the competitiveness of Indian industries. High energy prices can increase production costs for energy-intensive sectors such as manufacturing and transportation, impacting economic growth and industrial performance.
      • Subsidy Burden: The government often provides subsidies to mitigate the impact of high energy costs on consumers and businesses. These subsidies can strain public finances and impact fiscal stability.
    3. Economic Diversification
      • Investment in Alternatives: To reduce reliance on imported energy, India is investing in alternative energy sources, including renewables and domestic fossil fuel production. Diversification of the energy mix helps in mitigating risks associated with import dependency and supports long-term economic stability.
      • Infrastructure Development: Investments in domestic energy infrastructure, such as renewable energy projects and energy storage solutions, contribute to economic resilience by reducing reliance on external sources and enhancing self-sufficiency.

    3. Strategic Recommendations

    1. Enhancing Energy Independence
      • Investment in Domestic Resources: Increase investment in domestic energy resources, including coal, oil, and natural gas exploration and production. This reduces reliance on imports and enhances energy security.
      • Promotion of Renewables: Accelerate the development and deployment of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, to diversify the energy mix and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels.
    2. Diversifying Import Sources
      • Diversification of Suppliers: Build relationships with multiple energy suppliers and regions to mitigate risks associated with supply disruptions and price volatility. This includes exploring new sources and supply routes for oil and gas.
      • Energy Partnerships: Strengthen energy partnerships and trade agreements with a range of countries to ensure stable and reliable energy supplies.
    3. Developing Strategic Reserves and Infrastructure
      • Expansion of Reserves: Continue to develop and expand strategic petroleum reserves to buffer against supply disruptions and price shocks.
      • Infrastructure Investment: Invest in infrastructure for energy storage, transportation, and distribution to enhance resilience and efficiency in energy supply chains.
    4. Promoting Energy Efficiency and Conservation
      • Efficiency Programs: Implement energy efficiency programs and regulations to reduce overall energy consumption and reliance on imports. This includes promoting energy-efficient technologies and practices across sectors.
      • Public Awareness: Increase public awareness and education on energy conservation to encourage responsible consumption and reduce energy demand.

    Conclusion

    India’s dependence on imported energy resources has significant implications for its geopolitical strategy and economic stability. While it drives strategic partnerships and regional influence, it also exposes the country to risks related to price volatility, economic impact, and supply disruptions. By enhancing energy independence through domestic resource development, diversification of import sources, strategic reserves, and investment in renewable energy, India can better manage these risks and support long-term economic stability and security.

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Harsh Singh
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Harsh SinghBegginer
Asked: August 22, 2024In: ,
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question
  1. Anita Dhruw
    Anita Dhruw Legend

    India's Renewable Energy Status and Targets Current Status of Renewable Energy India has achieved considerable success in renewable energy, ranking as the world's 3rd largest producer. In 2023, India's installed renewable energy capacity is 179.5 GW, which comprises: - Solar Power: ~72 GW - Wind EneRead more

    India’s Renewable Energy Status and Targets Current Status of Renewable Energy

    India has achieved considerable success in renewable energy, ranking as the world’s 3rd largest producer. In 2023, India’s installed renewable energy capacity is 179.5 GW, which comprises:
    – Solar Power: ~72 GW
    – Wind Energy: ~46 GW
    – Bioenergy: ~10 GW
    – Small Hydro: ~5 GW
    Targets to be Achieved

    India aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030 to meet its Net Zero emissions target by 2070. The key goals include:
    – 175 GW renewable energy by 2022 (achieved ~120 GW).
    – 450 GW by 2030, revised to 500 GW under COP26 commitments.
    – Increasing solar energy through schemes like PM-KUSUM and the
    Rooftop Solar Programme.
    Significance of the National Programme on LEDs LED, which aims at the provision of an essential reduction in energy usage by LEDs. They have distributed over 37 crore LED bulbs while saving annually around 48 billion kWh.

    There has been a reduction in CO₂ emissions by almost ~39 million tons annually.
    Promotes energy efficiency, reduces electricity bills, and enhances sustainability.

    India’s renewable energy push and adoption of LED is critical for the country’s energy security and sustainability. Strong implementation will ensure a cleaner, greener future.

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Rashi Manhas
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Rashi ManhasBegginer
Asked: July 19, 2024In: , ,
  • 1

Considering the increasing global demand for energy, rising geopolitical tensions  globally , and contested territorial claims near Arctic , is it plausible that the 21st century will see a “scramble for the Arctic” similar  to the 19th-century scramble for Africa?

question
  1. Anita Dhruw
    Anita Dhruw Legend

    Public discourse continues to explore the possibility of an Arctic "scramble," as if it were some kind of a 19th-century scramble for Africa. Anti-Scramble for the Arctic: There are high reserves of oil, gas, minerals, and fisheries in the Arctic, giving the region a big resource potential and makinRead more

    Public discourse continues to explore the possibility of an Arctic “scramble,” as if it were some kind of a 19th-century scramble for Africa.

    Anti-Scramble for the Arctic:

    There are high reserves of oil, gas, minerals, and fisheries in the Arctic, giving the region a big resource potential and making it one of the more interesting regions in which to extract resources.

    In some sense, they are strategic avenues because they account for the meltage of the ice with sea and now one can take easier routes between Asia and Europe within less time while at the same time saving many costs. Very high international power competition is prevalent once again today, and many countries will battle to prove some relevance in such a region today.

    -Climate Change: Climatic changes have altered the Arctics conditions so fast. This means vast opportunities exist there for extracting its resources and traversing its ocean routes, also spurring an element of contest for controlling this region.

    Points Against a “Scramble for the Arctic”:

    -International Cooperation: Through the inter-governmental Arctic Council, it is highly successful for building cooperation within the Arctic countries in terms of environmental protection, sustainable development etc.

    Environmental Concerns: The Arctic is an extremely fragile system that easily falls victim to environmental destruction. International concern about the preservation of the Arctic environment and responsible development is rapidly on the rise.
    Indigenous Peoples’ Rights: The rights and interests of indigenous peoples in the Arctic region are increasingly acknowledged and respected.

    -Economic and Technological Challenges: Developing in the Arctic environment presents serious economic and technological challenges that could limit the speed of development.

    Conclusion

    Although the site and potential for conflict and competition over the Arctic region do exist, it is unlikely to be a direct replica of the 19th-century scramble for Africa. The factors that are likely to influence the future of the Arctic region include international cooperation, environmental concerns, and the rights of indigenous peoples.

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Zeeshan Ansari
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Zeeshan AnsariBegginer
Asked: July 28, 2024In: , ,
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save lifesave treesource of energy
  1. Rajesh Meena
    Rajesh Meena Begginer

    You're absolutely right. Saving trees is crucial for preserving and protecting life on our planet. Here are some key reasons why we should make tree conservation a priority: Oxygen Production: Trees are the lungs of the Earth, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen through photosynthesis. TheRead more

    You’re absolutely right. Saving trees is crucial for preserving and protecting life on our planet. Here are some key reasons why we should make tree conservation a priority:

    1. Oxygen Production: Trees are the lungs of the Earth, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen through photosynthesis. They are essential for maintaining a healthy and breathable atmosphere.
    2. Climate Regulation: Trees play a vital role in regulating the climate by absorbing and storing carbon dioxide, which helps mitigate the effects of climate change. Deforestation significantly contributes to global warming.
    3. Biodiversity: Forests and trees provide habitat and support a vast array of plant and animal species, maintaining the delicate balance of ecosystems. Protecting trees helps preserve biodiversity and prevent the loss of species.
    4. Soil Conservation: Trees help prevent soil erosion, stabilize the ground, and replenish the soil with nutrients through leaf litter and root systems. This is crucial for sustainable agriculture and maintaining fertile land.
    5. Water Cycle Regulation: Trees help regulate the water cycle by absorbing and releasing water, preventing floods, and maintaining groundwater levels. They also filter and purify water, providing clean drinking water.
    6. Air Pollution Mitigation: Trees can absorb and filter various air pollutants, improving air quality and reducing the harmful effects of air pollution on human health.
    7. Human Well-being: Interacting with nature and spending time in forested areas has been shown to have numerous benefits for physical and mental health, reducing stress and promoting overall well-being.
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Mehak Mehara
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Mehak MeharaBegginer
Asked: July 19, 2024In:
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For India, diversifying its energy mix is now a need rather than an option. Explain.

upsc: energy resource
  1. Sammi Bhargav
    Sammi Bhargav Begginer

    India is a major force in the global energy economy. Energy consumption has more than doubled since 2000, propelled upwards by a growing population and rapid economic growth. Continued endeavours towards industrialization and urbanization will further increase the energy demand. According to the IndRead more

    India is a major force in the global energy economy. Energy consumption has more than doubled since 2000, propelled upwards by a growing population and rapid economic growth. Continued endeavours towards industrialization and urbanization will further increase the energy demand. According to the India Energy Outlook 2021, India will be the main driver of rising demand for energy over the next two decades, accounting for 25% of global growth. India’s energy consumption is expected to nearly double as the nation’s gross domestic product expands to an estimated $8.6 trillion by 2040. In this context, diversification of energy resources becomes a necessity for India:

    • Predominance of coal: As per the 19th Electric Power Survey, out of the all-India power generation installed capacity by 2026-27, environmentally polluting coal-based projects would have a high 40 per cent share. Despite low per capita CO2 emissions, India is the third-largest global emitter of CO2. The carbon intensity of its power sector in particular is well above the global average.
    • Menace of air pollution: Fossil fuel-based industry is a major source of particulate matter pollution in India. It causes heavy smog and air pollution in Northern India. In 2019, there were well over one million premature deaths related to ambient and household air pollution.
    • Growing price competitiveness: Price volatility poses a major challenge for the fossil fuel and gas power plant operators as well as end users in India. On the other hand, the renewable energy sector has witnessed tremendous advancement in the whole value chain, especially due to technological advancement. Also, the market for renewable energy resources is maturing which will help drive down the price.
    • Future proof: Generally, a wind or solar farm is built for up to 25 to 30 years of operation. The average time running period for a hydro power project is even higher. The equipment can be refurbished once its shelf life is over and newly upgraded solar modules or wind turbines will be relatively more cost effective and efficient.
    • Ensuring energy security: In a fragile contemporary geo-politics, securing energy supplies and sources is essential for any nation to assert its sovereignty. While oil and gas sources are limited to certain regions of the world, renewable energy is available everywhere and is domestic. Not only does it offer security of energy supply but also reduces dependence on imported sources.
    • International obligations: In the COP26 in Paris, India made a commitment to meet 50 percent of its energy requirements from renewable energy by 2030 and by 2030, it will reduce the carbon intensity of its economy by less than 45 percent.

    Thus, the need for energy diversification for India cannot be overstated. Due to favourable policies by the government, India is on track to meet its Paris Climate Change commitments. In 2021, with an increase in renewable energy capacity to 102 GW, the total energy generation from renewable sources is about 12 per cent. This points towards a positive trajectory towards energy diversification.

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Mr Patel
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Mr PatelBegginer
Asked: July 18, 2024In: ,
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economy.energyenvironmentfulespace
  1. Shrishti Thakur
    Shrishti Thakur Begginer
    This answer was edited.

    Imagine a future where we no longer need to dig deep into the Earth, causing harm to our planet, to meet our resource needs. Instead, we turn to the stars, to the ancient, silent asteroids that drift through space, carrying within them a wealth of untapped resources. Extracting fuel from asteroids cRead more

    Imagine a future where we no longer need to dig deep into the Earth, causing harm to our planet, to meet our resource needs. Instead, we turn to the stars, to the ancient, silent asteroids that drift through space, carrying within them a wealth of untapped resources.

    Extracting fuel from asteroids could allow us to preserve our natural landscapes and reduce pollution. The mining of asteroids would mean less destruction of our forests, mountains, and oceans. Earth’s ecosystems would have a chance to recover and thrive, providing a cleaner and healthier environment for all living creatures.

    Economically, the benefits are equally transformative. By establishing refueling stations in space, we could significantly reduce the cost of space travel. This would make it possible to explore deeper into our solar system, driving advancements in technology and creating new industries. The materials and fuel harvested from asteroids could be used to support space missions, build structures in orbit, and even develop new forms of energy.

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Rishi Sharma
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Rishi SharmaBegginer
Asked: June 25, 2024In:
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For a variety of factors, India’s significant wind energy potential is still unrealized. Examine and recommend a course of action. (Answer in 150 words)

upsc: energy resources
  1. Swati
    Swati Begginer

    India ranks third in the world in terms of energy consumption. India ranks fourth in the world in terms of wind power. At COP26, the country raised its target of 500 GW of energy from non-fossil fuels by 2030. It is the largest renewable energy expansion program in the world The major reasons for unRead more

    India ranks third in the world in terms of energy consumption. India ranks fourth in the world in terms of wind power. At COP26, the country raised its target of 500 GW of energy from non-fossil fuels by 2030. It is the largest renewable energy expansion program in the world

    The major reasons for underutilization of wind energy energy in India are:

    1. Complex land use
    Investing in wind energy without land acquisition regulations makes it difficult to acquire land. This has increased land costs for wind farms and increased the risk to local wildlife.

    2. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic
    The pandemic and delayed supply chain issues are to blame for the delay in realizing all that can be done.

    3. Skills and manpower requirements
    Concerns are also being raised about the sector’s technical capacity and human resource requirements, particularly in the emerging offshore wind projects.

    4. Need for legal framework
    A comprehensive regulatory framework, incentives for producers, solutions to land access challenges, spending on skills development and emphasizing the domestic supply chain are all needed to comply solve these problems

    5. High capital requirements
    Offshore wind farms require higher capital than onshore wind farms due to deep sea installations, advanced technologies, high capacity, distance from shore and deep sea pipelines

    Despite the potential, the geographical spread of wind power in India is limited. One of the main reasons for this limitation is the lack of accepted infrastructure to support wind energy systems. For example, the infrastructure needed to transport wind energy from remote locations to a grid is often awkward or non-existent, which can drive up costs.

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Rajashree Shirke
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Rajashree ShirkeLearner
Asked: January 25, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Briefly introduce the concept of lithium as a key mineral for the green energy transition. Mention India’s growing interest in its lithium reserves and the significance of lithium for India’s energy and economic future. 2. Body I. Challenges in ...

upsc: energy resources
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Challenges in Unlocking India's Lithium Potential Limited Domestic Reserves: India has discovered lithium deposits in J&K, Jharkhand, and Rajasthan, but the overall reserves are limited compared to global leaders like Chile or Australia. The major find in J&K amounts to around 5Read more

    Model Answer

    Challenges in Unlocking India’s Lithium Potential

    1. Limited Domestic Reserves: India has discovered lithium deposits in J&K, Jharkhand, and Rajasthan, but the overall reserves are limited compared to global leaders like Chile or Australia. The major find in J&K amounts to around 5.9 million tonnes, but this still needs further revisions to confirm exact reserves. This creates concerns about India’s reliance on imports to meet growing demand for lithium.Example: Despite the discovery in J&K, production levels will likely be lower than expected, and India will still need to import a significant portion of its lithium.
    2. Technological and Infrastructure Barriers: India lacks the necessary technology and infrastructure to efficiently extract lithium, especially from brine sources, which are the most common type of deposit. Building these capabilities requires both technological investment and skilled human resources.Example: India does not yet have the infrastructure to extract lithium from brine, unlike countries like Chile and Argentina that have developed specialized technologies.
    3. Environmental Challenges: Extracting lithium can be environmentally damaging, with issues such as water scarcity and soil contamination. Sustainable extraction methods are still developing.Example: In Chile’s Salar de Atacama, lithium extraction has led to severe water shortages, highlighting the potential environmental cost.
    4. Global Market Dynamics: The global lithium market is volatile, with prices fluctuating due to competition and market demand. India faces uncertainty in establishing a stable supply chain for lithium.Example: In 2023, lithium carbonate prices surged by 92%, reflecting the volatility of global lithium markets.
    5. High Initial Investments: Establishing the full lithium ecosystem—mining, processing, and battery manufacturing—requires substantial investments. The Indian government’s production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme for advanced batteries alone is a $2 billion initiative.Example: India’s PLI scheme represents a significant budget commitment to fostering the lithium industry.

    Significance for India’s Green Energy Transition

    1. Clean Energy Storage: Lithium-ion batteries are crucial for storing renewable energy, ensuring a reliable supply when solar or wind energy isn’t available. This addresses the intermittency issue inherent in renewable energy sources.
    2. Electric Vehicle Revolution: Lithium batteries are essential for electric vehicles (EVs), which are key to reducing carbon emissions and achieving sustainability goals.
    3. Strategic and Economic Growth: By becoming a global player in the lithium market, India can enhance its strategic position, ensuring energy security and supporting economic growth through the development of the lithium supply chain.
    4. Job Creation: The lithium sector can create numerous job opportunities, from mining to battery production, thus driving economic growth and contributing to sustainable development.
    5. Sustainable Development: India can lead by adopting environmentally responsible mining practices, contributing to the global shift toward clean energy and aligning with its climate goals.

    Conclusion

    India’s challenges in unlocking its lithium potential should be seen as an opportunity for innovation and strategic growth. By addressing these challenges through sustainable practices and investments, India can pave the way for a successful green energy transition, contributing significantly to both national and global sustainability goals.

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Shreya Bajaj
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Shreya BajajBegginer
Asked: July 21, 2024In: ,
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Describe in detail global warming, climate change and its impact on economy with reference to carbon credit system and green economy in India.

carbon credit systemclimate changeglobal warminggreen economy
  1. Ansh Yadav
    Ansh Yadav Begginer

    Global Warming: Global warming is the rise in an average temperature of earth’s atmosphere and oceans. It is primarily caused by increasing concentration of greenhouse gases produce by human activities such as burning of fossil fuel and deforestation. Climate Change: India having huge development prRead more

    Global Warming:

    Global warming is the rise in an average temperature of earth’s atmosphere and oceans. It is primarily caused by increasing concentration of greenhouse gases produce by human activities such as burning of fossil fuel and deforestation.

    Climate Change:
    India having huge development priorities will be adversely affected by climate change, in terms of availability of fresh water, low ground water recharge, food production, ocean acidification, increased vector born and water borne diseases with impact on human health, agriculture, water resources, natural eco systems, and biodiversity.

    Impact on Economy:
    1.The Green Economy responds to global economic, social and financial crises by reallocating natural, social and financial capital into creating benefits for economic development, social equity and environmental protection. Reconciliation of short-term versus long-term priorities by adopting resource-efficient and less polluting pathway enable the countries to leapfrog the usual development trajectory avoiding future costs.

    2.Most selling carbon credits so far includes renewable energy, energy efficiency measures in several sectors as well as the reduction of industrial gases that contribute to climate change. A carbon credit, licenses the owner to emit one tons of carbon dioxide in year. Carbon credits provides an incentives to reduce greenhouse gases effect emission on an industrial scale and are key components of national and international emissions trading schemes that have been implemented to mitigate global warming.

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