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Energy

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Home/Indian Economy/Energy/Page 3

Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions

Rajashree Shirke
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Rajashree ShirkeLearner
Asked: January 20, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Briefly introduce Energy Storage Systems (ESS) and their significance in India’s transition towards renewable energy. Mention the importance of ESS in supporting intermittent renewable sources like solar and wind, and stabilizing the grid. 2. Benefits of Energy Storage ...

upsc: energy
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction India is working towards incorporating Energy Storage Systems (ESS) into its power infrastructure to support its transition towards renewable energy. ESS are critical in managing intermittent renewable energy, such as wind and solar, and ensuring grid stability. In August 2Read more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    India is working towards incorporating Energy Storage Systems (ESS) into its power infrastructure to support its transition towards renewable energy. ESS are critical in managing intermittent renewable energy, such as wind and solar, and ensuring grid stability. In August 2023, the Ministry of Power introduced the National Framework for Promoting ESS to boost their role in the country’s energy landscape.

    Benefits of Energy Storage Systems (ESS)

    1. Smoothing Renewable Energy Generation: ESS paired with renewable energy plants (solar and wind) can store excess energy during high generation periods and release it when generation is low. This reduces the intermittent nature of renewable energy, improving grid stability and increasing renewable energy use.
      • Example: ESS can store solar power during the day and release it at night when demand is higher.
    2. Peak Electricity Demand Shaving: By storing energy during off-peak periods, ESS can discharge energy during peak demand times, reducing the pressure on the grid and lowering electricity prices.
    3. Deferring Infrastructure Investments: ESS can be strategically located on the grid to manage localized demand, avoiding the need for costly new substations and transmission lines.
    4. Reducing Demand Charges: Commercial and industrial users can deploy on-site ESS to reduce their peak demand, which lowers demand charges typically incurred during high consumption periods.

    Government Policy Initiatives

    1. Legal Status to ESS: The Electricity (Amendment) Rules, 2022 have granted ESS legal recognition as part of the power system, facilitating integration into the energy infrastructure.
    2. Energy Storage Obligation (ESO): To ensure sufficient storage capacity, the government has set a long-term trajectory for ESO, aiming for around 82 GWh of storage by 2026-27, as outlined in the National Electricity Plan 2023.
    3. Waiver of Transmission Charges: The government has waived Inter-State Transmission System charges for ESS, promoting their use and integration into the national grid.
    4. Replacing Diesel Generators (DGs): The Electricity (Amendment) Rules, 2022 mandate that consumers using DG sets switch to renewable energy and storage systems, promoting cleaner alternatives.

    Conclusion

    ESS play a vital role in managing India’s transition to a renewable energy-driven economy. The government’s supportive policies, such as the legal recognition of ESS and incentivizing energy storage integration, will help achieve the country’s energy security and sustainability goals.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 22, 2024In:
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Do you believe that by 2030, renewable energy sources will account for half of India’s energy needs? Explain your response. How can switching subsidies from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources aid in achieving the aforementioned goal? Describe. (250 words) ...

upsc: energy
  1. Asha Patil
    Asha Patil Begginer

    India's Renewable Energy Goals for 2030 **1. Feasibility of Meeting 50% Renewable Energy Target: India's Commitment: India has set a target of achieving 50% of its energy needs from renewable sources by 2030 as part of its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. This amRead more

    India’s Renewable Energy Goals for 2030

    **1. Feasibility of Meeting 50% Renewable Energy Target:

    • India’s Commitment: India has set a target of achieving 50% of its energy needs from renewable sources by 2030 as part of its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. This ambitious goal is supported by significant investments in solar and wind energy.
    • Current Progress: As of early 2024, India has achieved around 25% of its total installed capacity from renewable sources, with a notable increase in solar and wind installations. For instance, India’s solar power capacity reached 64.7 GW by March 2023, and the government is actively working to expand this further.

    **2. Recent Developments:

    • International Partnerships: India’s involvement in international initiatives, such as the International Solar Alliance (ISA), helps in mobilizing resources and technology for renewable energy projects.
    • Policy Support: Policies like the National Solar Mission and the Green Energy Corridor aim to boost renewable energy integration and grid stability.

    **3. Role of Subsidy Shift in Achieving Targets:

    • Reducing Fossil Fuel Dependence: Shifting subsidies from fossil fuels to renewables would reduce the financial burden on renewable energy projects and make them more competitive. Currently, fossil fuel subsidies distort market prices and delay the transition to cleaner energy.
    • Encouraging Investment: Redirecting subsidies to renewables would incentivize private sector investment and lower the cost of renewable technologies. For example, the Government of India’s Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for solar modules aims to enhance domestic manufacturing and reduce costs.
    • Supporting Infrastructure: Subsidies can be used to develop necessary infrastructure, such as battery storage and smart grids, which are essential for managing the intermittency of renewable energy sources.

    **4. Challenges and Mitigation:

    • Grid Stability: Integrating a high share of renewables requires upgrades in grid infrastructure to handle variable energy supplies. Investments in smart grids and energy storage solutions are crucial.
    • Policy and Regulatory Framework: Ensuring consistent and supportive policies is essential for attracting investments and achieving targets. The Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) mandates ensure that utilities meet renewable energy requirements.

    Conclusion: Achieving the 50% renewable energy target by 2030 is feasible with continued commitment, technological advancements, and a strategic shift in subsidies from fossil fuels to renewable energy. This transition will not only support India’s climate goals but also drive sustainable economic growth.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 22, 2024In:
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Explain the advantages of using sunlight to generate electricity as opposed to more traditional methods of energy production. What programs does our government have available for this purpose? (250 words) [UPSC 2020]

upsc: energy
  1. Krishna Vasudev
    Krishna Vasudev Learner

    Benefits of Deriving Electric Energy from Sunlight Renewable Resource: Sustainability: Solar energy is a renewable resource, unlike fossil fuels, which are finite and depleting. The sun provides an abundant and continuous supply of energy. Environmental Impact: Reduction in Greenhouse Gas Emissions:Read more

    Benefits of Deriving Electric Energy from Sunlight

    1. Renewable Resource:
      • Sustainability: Solar energy is a renewable resource, unlike fossil fuels, which are finite and depleting. The sun provides an abundant and continuous supply of energy.
    2. Environmental Impact:
      • Reduction in Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Solar power generation does not emit greenhouse gases or other pollutants during operation. This helps in mitigating climate change and improving air quality. Example: Transitioning to solar power reduces reliance on coal-fired power plants, leading to lower carbon emissions.
    3. Decreased Energy Costs:
      • Lower Operational Costs: Once solar panels are installed, the cost of generating electricity is minimal compared to conventional energy sources that require ongoing fuel costs. Example: After the initial investment, solar energy can significantly lower electricity bills for households and businesses.
    4. Energy Security and Independence:
      • Reduced Dependence on Imported Fuels: Solar energy enhances energy security by reducing dependency on imported fossil fuels, which can be subject to price volatility and supply disruptions.
    5. Job Creation and Economic Growth:
      • Employment Opportunities: The solar energy sector creates jobs in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance, contributing to economic growth. Example: The solar industry has become a significant source of employment in many countries, including India.

    Government Initiatives for Solar Energy

    1. National Solar Mission:
      • Objective: Part of the National Action Plan on Climate Change, this mission aims to promote solar energy deployment across the country. Example: It targets 100 GW of solar power capacity by 2022.
    2. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM):
      • Objective: This scheme aims to support farmers in installing solar panels for agricultural pumps, promoting solar energy in rural areas. Example: It provides subsidies and incentives for farmers to switch to solar-powered irrigation.
    3. Solar Rooftop Subsidy Scheme:
      • Objective: Encourages residential, commercial, and industrial buildings to install rooftop solar panels by offering subsidies. Example: The scheme provides financial incentives to reduce the upfront cost of solar installations.
    4. Grid-Connected Solar Power Projects:
      • Objective: Promotes large-scale solar power projects connected to the national grid, boosting renewable energy generation. Example: The Solar Park Scheme facilitates the development of large solar parks with dedicated infrastructure.
    5. FAME India Scheme (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles):
      • Objective: While primarily aimed at electric vehicles, this scheme supports the integration of solar energy in EV charging infrastructure. Example: It promotes the use of renewable energy sources for charging electric vehicles.

    These initiatives are designed to accelerate the adoption of solar energy, enhance energy security, and contribute to sustainable development.

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Bhanu Chopra
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Bhanu ChopraBegginer
Asked: July 25, 2024In:
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Examine how the government’s programs, like the National Hydrogen Mission and the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for solar PV manufacturing, are helping to integrate the Indian energy sector with global value chains and build domestic capabilities. Discuss the long-term effects ...

upsc: energy
  1. Abhinav Gupta
    Abhinav Gupta Begginer

    Role of Government Initiatives in Promoting Domestic Capabilities and Integration with Global Value Chains 1. National Hydrogen Mission Objective and Overview: The National Hydrogen Mission (NHM) was launched by the Indian government in 2021 with the aim of positioning India as a global leader in hyRead more

    Role of Government Initiatives in Promoting Domestic Capabilities and Integration with Global Value Chains

    1. National Hydrogen Mission

    Objective and Overview:
    The National Hydrogen Mission (NHM) was launched by the Indian government in 2021 with the aim of positioning India as a global leader in hydrogen production, particularly green hydrogen. This initiative focuses on developing sustainable hydrogen production, storage, and utilization technologies.

    Recent Examples and Achievements:

    • Green Hydrogen Policy (2022): The government has introduced the Green Hydrogen Policy to facilitate the production and utilization of green hydrogen. This policy offers incentives for renewable energy projects and aims to create a hydrogen production hub.
    • Public Sector Initiatives: Major public sector enterprises like NTPC and Indian Oil Corporation have begun investing in green hydrogen projects, such as NTPC’s plans to set up a green hydrogen plant in Assam and Indian Oil’s project in Punjab.

    Implications for Energy Security and Competitiveness:

    • Energy Security: By promoting green hydrogen, India aims to reduce its dependency on imported fossil fuels and diversify its energy sources, enhancing national energy security.
    • Competitiveness: Establishing a strong green hydrogen industry can position India as a key player in the global hydrogen economy, potentially leading to increased exports and technological advancements.

    2. Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Solar PV Manufacturing

    Objective and Overview:
    The PLI scheme for solar PV manufacturing was launched in 2021 to boost domestic production of solar photovoltaic (PV) cells and modules. This initiative aims to reduce import dependency and enhance the domestic solar manufacturing sector.

    Recent Examples and Achievements:

    • Approval of Projects: The government approved several projects under the PLI scheme, such as those by companies like Adani Group and Tata Power Solar. These projects are expected to significantly increase the domestic production capacity.
    • Investment and Growth: The scheme has attracted significant investments from both domestic and international companies, leading to the establishment of large-scale manufacturing units in India.

    Implications for Energy Security and Competitiveness:

    • Energy Security: By increasing domestic production of solar PV modules, India reduces its reliance on imported solar equipment, thereby strengthening its energy security and ensuring a more stable supply chain.
    • Competitiveness: The PLI scheme helps in reducing the cost of solar PV modules through economies of scale, making solar energy more competitive compared to traditional energy sources and encouraging wider adoption.

    Evaluation of Long-Term Implications

    1. Strengthening Domestic Capabilities:

    • Both initiatives contribute to the development of domestic capabilities by encouraging investment in technology and infrastructure, fostering innovation, and creating job opportunities in emerging sectors.

    2. Integration with Global Value Chains:

    • The National Hydrogen Mission positions India to be a part of the global green hydrogen market, potentially leading to international collaborations and trade.
    • The PLI scheme enhances India’s role in the global solar supply chain, with the potential to export solar PV products and technologies.

    3. Energy Security and Competitiveness:

    • Energy Security: Both initiatives reduce dependency on imported energy resources, enhance resilience against global energy market fluctuations, and support a transition to cleaner energy sources.
    • Competitiveness: These schemes aim to lower production costs and drive technological advancements, positioning India as a competitive player in the global energy market and promoting sustainable development.

    In conclusion, the National Hydrogen Mission and the PLI scheme for solar PV manufacturing are pivotal in advancing India’s energy sector. They bolster domestic capabilities, integrate India into global value chains, and contribute significantly to long-term energy security and economic competitiveness.

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Gita Sharma
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Gita SharmaBegginer
Asked: June 26, 2024In:
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Decentralization, digitization, and decarbonization are three rapidly rising developments in the energy sector. Talk about it. (Answer in 250 words)

upsc: energy
  1. Rubi Gautam
    Rubi Gautam Begginer

    Given the ever-increasing carbon emissions and carbon footprint of the energy sector, decarbonization, decentralization, and digitization are fast emerging as potent solutions to global energy issues. Decarbonization: This trend refers to the transition towards a clean, carbon-free world, largely byRead more

    Given the ever-increasing carbon emissions and carbon footprint of the energy sector, decarbonization, decentralization, and digitization are fast emerging as potent solutions to global energy issues.

    • Decarbonization: This trend refers to the transition towards a clean, carbon-free world, largely by increasing the use of renewables and increasing premiums on the use of fossil fuels.
      • Electrification is often touted as a significant way to decarbonize energy. For example, switching to electric vehicles. For electricity to become emission-free, there has to be a move towards renewable energy solutions such as wind, solar, and biofuels.
      • India has set various targets for the renewable sector and has also done upward revision in its INDCs under the Paris Agreement. Globally, India ranks fourth in renewable energy capacity and wind power and fifth in solar power capacity.
    • Decentralization: This trend is all about transitioning away from our current system of highly centralized energy grids run by monopolistic energy providers, towards distributed energy production systems.
      • Through a combination of renewable energy and localized “microgrids,” consumers can generate their own electricity for their own needs. It also offers revenue opportunities and a way to provide backup power to the national grid. Localized renewable power would also help in cutting carbon emissions.
      • Decentralization can drive competition up, and power prices down, as the number of energy providers increases. India has focused on technologies like net metering and smart meters for the same but a lot more needs to be done in this regard.
    • Digitization: This trend is all about the use of digital machines, devices, and technology to optimize energy production, infrastructure, and use. This trend is inextricably linked to the previous two trends.
      • An increasing variety of zero-carbon energy sources will mean our energy networks become more complex. Also, decentralized grids will need intelligent solutions to monitor and manage the fluctuating demand.
      • In India, this is done via the Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI). It seeks to deploy prepaid smart meters at scale. ✓ The end-to-end AMI includes smart electric meters, which are supported by technologies such as communication networks, Head-End System (HES), Meter Data Management System (MDMS), and Cloud systems. ✓ Smart Meter National Program (SMNP), promoted through the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), aims to replace 25 crore conventional meters with smart meters in India. ✓ Digital tools will also give an impetus to the energy sector. These include:
        • Al and predictive analytics particularly when used to analyze and predict demand, and adjust where power is drawn from on distributed grids.
        • Internet of Things including smart home thermostats that can help consumers cut their energy use.
        • Blockchain could be useful for creating smart contracts that allow consumers to trace where their energy comes from.
        • Digital twins can be used to create a virtual replica of a power plant or even an entire grid, allowing providers to model different scenarios, make better decisions, and improve efficiency.

    Global energy demand is expected to increase in the coming years, especially with the industrial growth aspirations of developing countries like India. Therefore, it is imperative that most of this new energy demand is met by low-carbon, renewable sources for achieving sustainable development. This would require ramping up institutional, technical, and financial capacity across the globe.

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Firoj dud
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Firoj dudBegginer
Asked: July 24, 2024In:
  • 1

Describe the reasons behind India’s need to encourage energy efficiency. Mention a few of the actions the government has taken to address this.

upsc: energy
  1. Sunita Soni
    Sunita Soni Begginer

    Energy efficiency essentially means using a lesser amount of energy while producing a given amount of output. For example, incandescent lights used to transform only a maximum up to 10% of electrical energy to useful light, whereas LED light converts at least 25% of the energy input into visible ligRead more

    Energy efficiency essentially means using a lesser amount of energy while producing a given amount of output. For example, incandescent lights used to transform only a maximum up to 10% of electrical energy to useful light, whereas LED light converts at least 25% of the energy input into visible light energy.

    Need for promoting energy efficiency in India

    • High demand for energy: A growing population and rising aspirations of a growing middle class is driving the demand for energy resources in India. One unit of energy saved at the consumption level reduces the need for fresh capacity creation by 2 times to 2.5 times.Therefore, energy efficiency plays a crucial role in ensuring energy access.
    • Energy Security: India meets its energy demands majorly from oil and coal; 80% of which is imported. This necessitates saving energy for reducing import dependence that increases the vulnerability of the country’s economy to global geopolitical and economic risks.
    • Cost considerations: High costs of electricity hinders the competitiveness of basic Indian industries in the global market. Energy efficiency measures are therefore not only important to save money on electricity bills but also improve ease of doing business.
    • Environmental pollution: A focus on energy efficiency is also necessary to reduce the heavy pollution- especially air pollution- caused by the industry and transport sector.
    • Combating climate change: Energy efficiency is central to achieve India’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) targets to lower the emissions intensity of GDP by 33-35 per cent by 2030 from 2005 levels.

    India had realised the importance of energy rationing long back, evident from the launch of the Energy Conservation Act in 2001. Overall, various energy efficiency measures have translated into savings worth INR 89,000 crores (approximately) in 2018-19 and contributed in reducing 151.74 Million Tonnes of CO2 emission in India. This has been made possible due to various government efforts such as:

    • National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE) under NAPCC: It aims to strengthen the market for energy efficiency by creating a conducive regulatory regime and fostering innovative business models. It includes market based mechanisms like Perform Achieve and Trade scheme, Energy Efficiency Financing Platform for raising finance etc.
    • Promotion of Electric Vehicles National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP): The government has launched the scheme namely Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid & Electric Vehicles (FAME India) under NEMMP 2020 in the Union Budget for 2015-16.
    • Capacity Building of DISCOMS: Ujwal DISCOM Assurance Yojana was launched in 2015 with the objective of capacity building of DISCOMs and promoting energy conservation programme.
    • Promotion of Energy Efficient LED Bulbs – UJALA scheme: It aims to promote efficient use of energy at the residential level, enhance the awareness of consumers about the efficacy of using energy efficient appliances.
    • Standards and Labeling: The Bureau of Energy Efficiency initiated the Standards and Labeling programme for equipment and appliances in 2006 to provide the consumer an informed choice about the energy savings.

    By urgently and fully adopting an energy energy effici efficient lifestyle, India can build a positive momentum towards transformation of the energy system that will achieve the common climate change and sustainable development goals.

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NIKHIL SINGH
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NIKHIL SINGHBegginer
Asked: July 15, 2024In: , ,
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climate changeenergynet zeronuclear energyquestion
  1. Vanshika
    Vanshika Begginer

    India aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070, and nuclear energy is set to play a crucial role in this transition. As the country grapples with the dual challenges of meeting its burgeoning energy demands and reducing its carbon footprint, nuclear power offers a sustainable and reliable solutionRead more

    India aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070, and nuclear energy is set to play a crucial role in this transition. As the country grapples with the dual challenges of meeting its burgeoning energy demands and reducing its carbon footprint, nuclear power offers a sustainable and reliable solution. By providing a stable base-load power source, nuclear energy can complement renewable sources like solar and wind, which are intermittent in nature.

    Floating nuclear reactors and small modular reactors (SMRs) are innovative technologies that will significantly contribute to India’s energy strategy. Floating nuclear reactors, which can be deployed offshore or in coastal areas, provide a versatile and scalable solution to meet regional energy needs without the extensive infrastructure typically required for traditional nuclear plants. These reactors can be transported and installed in areas with limited space or difficult terrain, thus expanding the potential sites for nuclear energy production.

    SMRs, on the other hand, are designed to be more economical and safer than conventional reactors. Their modular nature allows for incremental capacity additions, making them suitable for a phased approach to energy expansion. SMRs can be integrated into the existing grid or used in remote or underserved areas, providing a reliable power source where large-scale plants are impractical. The enhanced safety features and reduced risk of catastrophic failure make SMRs an attractive option for India’s diverse and densely populated regions.

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