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Home/upsc: energy resources

Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions

Arjun Sharma
  • 3
Arjun SharmaBegginer
Asked: July 10, 2024In:
  • 3

Analyze India’s hydro energy potential and explain the reasons for its restricted geographic distribution.

upsc: energy resources
  1. Nishant Desai
    Nishant Desai Learner

    Hydro energy, also known as hydroelectric energy or hydropower, is a renewable energy source generated by the kinetic energy of flowing water. As of 2022, India boasted a hydroelectric capacity of 46,512 MW, constituting approximately 12% of the nation's total power generation capacity. This figureRead more

    Hydro energy, also known as hydroelectric energy or hydropower, is a renewable energy source generated by the kinetic energy of flowing water. As of 2022, India boasted a hydroelectric capacity of 46,512 MW, constituting approximately 12% of the nation’s total power generation capacity. This figure underscores the substantial potential for hydro energy in India.

    Hydro Energy Potential of India:

    • Estimated Potential: India possesses an estimated hydropower potential of 1,45,320 MW, excluding small hydro projects (SHPs), which contribute an additional 20 GW potential. At a 60% load factor, this potential can meet the demand of around 85,000 MW.
    • Regional Distribution: The primary regions with significant hydropower potential are in the northern and northeastern parts of the country. Arunachal Pradesh leads the way with the largest untapped potential of 47 GW, followed by Uttarakhand with 12 GW.
    • River Systems: The unexploited potential is concentrated along three major river systems: the Indus, Ganges, and Brahmaputra. These regions hold immense promise for hydropower development.
    • Pumped Storage Potential: India boasts more than 90 GW of pumped storage potential, with 63 identified sites officially recognized in national energy policies. These sites play a crucial role in providing valuable grid services and enhancing energy grid stability.

    Reasons for Limited Spatial Distribution of Hydro Energy in India:

    • Regional Variability: The distribution of water resources is uneven across different states and regions of India. The Himalayan region in the north and northeastern states receive heavy rainfall and are endowed with abundant water resources, making them suitable for hydroelectric projects. However, other regions, such as the arid western and some peninsular parts of India, have limited water resources, restricting the scope for hydro energy development.
    • Interstate Water Disputes: India’s federal structure has led to disputes over the sharing of river waters between states. Interstate water disputes can delay or even stall the implementation of hydro projects, reducing their spatial distribution. The Cauvery water dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu exemplifies this.
    • High Capital Costs: Hydroelectric projects require substantial upfront capital investments for dam construction, turbines, and transmission infrastructure. Access to financing and the ability to mobilize resources can be challenging, particularly for economically disadvantaged regions, limiting the spread of hydro energy development. For example, the Dibang hydropower project in Arunachal Pradesh is estimated to cost Rs 31,876.39 crore at the May 2021 price level.
    • Technological Challenges: Some regions lack the necessary technical expertise and infrastructure to support hydro energy projects. The remote Himalayan regions, for instance, face logistical challenges in transporting equipment and materials to construction sites.
    • Social and Environmental Concerns: The construction of large dams and reservoirs for hydroelectric projects often raise social and environmental concerns, including habitat disruption, waterlogging, and the displacement of local communities, limiting the expansion of hydro energy initiatives.
      • For instance, construction of the Sardar Sarovar Dam led to the rise of Narmada Bachao Andolan due to concerns about environmental degradation and displacement of local communities.

    Way Forward

    • Interstate Collaboration: Foster interstate cooperation through collaborative agreements and efficient dispute resolution mechanisms, as exemplified by the successful Bhakra-Nangal Project involving Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan, to accelerate the implementation of hydro projects and harness the potential of shared water resources.
    • Investment Incentivization: Launch proactive investment incentives, building on the power ministry’s proposed scheme with an initial allocation of ₹16,000 crore, to attract both public and private capital into hydropower ventures, ensuring financial support for the growth of hydroelectric projects. •
    • Hybrid Energy Systems: Create hybrid energy systems by integrating hydro energy with solar and wind, following Denmark’s pioneering example to boost reliability and reduce environmental impact.
    • Micro-Hydro Solutions: Implement decentralized micro-hydro projects that harness smaller water bodies and streams, as seen in Nepal’s successful rural initiatives. This empowers local communities by providing localized power generation, reducing infrastructure demands, and enhancing energy access and sustainability.
    • Eco-Friendly Technologies: Invest in eco-friendly hydro technologies, such as run-of-river systems and fish-friendly turbines, to address environmental concerns and enhance project sustainability. For example, Canada’s Natel turbine features thick blades that enable more than 99 percent of fish to pass through safely.
    • Community-Centric Approaches: Prioritize community involvement in project planning, offering incentives and benefits to local communities to gain their support and cooperation. The Reventazon project in Costa Rica, recognized as an international model of good practice in hydropower sustainability, exemplifies it.

    In conclusion, India possesses substantial hydro energy potential, but its spatial distribution is hindered by multiple factors. India’s ambitious goal of achieving 40 percent of its installed capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030 emphasizes the significance of tapping into this potential. Through cooperative and determined endeavors, India can turn this aspiration into reality, fostering a cleaner and more diverse energy landscape, thereby securing a sustainable energy future for the nation.

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Malti devi
  • 1
Malti deviLearner
Asked: July 16, 2024In:
  • 1

Examine the role that the Union government plays in regulating and growing the energy industry, including how traditional and renewable energy resources are managed.

upsc: energy resources
  1. Pranjal shekh
    Pranjal shekh Begginer

    The Union government in India has played a significant role in the regulation and development of the energy sector, including the management of traditional and renewable energy resources. Regulation of the Energy Sector: The Union government, through various ministries and regulatory bodies, has estRead more

    The Union government in India has played a significant role in the regulation and development of the energy sector, including the management of traditional and renewable energy resources.

    Regulation of the Energy Sector:

    • The Union government, through various ministries and regulatory bodies, has established a comprehensive legal and policy framework to govern the energy sector in India.
    • Key regulatory bodies include the Ministry of Power, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, and the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC).
    • These bodies are responsible for formulating policies, setting standards, issuing licenses, and overseeing the functioning of the energy sector.
    • The Union government has also enacted laws like the Electricity Act, 2003, which has provided a unified regulatory framework for the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity.

    Management of Traditional Energy Resources:

    • The Union government has played a central role in the exploration, extraction, and distribution of traditional energy resources, such as coal, oil, and natural gas.
    • State-owned enterprises, like Coal India Limited and the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), have been the primary producers and suppliers of these resources.
    • The Union government has also implemented policies and programs to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of traditional energy sources, such as promoting the use of clean coal technologies and encouraging the exploration of unconventional resources.

    Promotion of Renewable Energy:

    • The Union government has placed a strong emphasis on the development of renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydropower, as part of its broader commitment to sustainable and low-carbon energy solutions.
    • The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has been the nodal agency responsible for formulating and implementing policies and programs to promote renewable energy.
    • The government has introduced various incentives, including tax benefits, subsidies, and favorable tariff structures, to encourage investment and deployment of renewable energy technologies.
    • The Union government has also set ambitious targets for the expansion of renewable energy capacity in India, reflecting its commitment to transitioning towards a more sustainable energy mix.

    Coordination with States:

    • The Union government’s role in the energy sector involves close coordination with state governments, as many aspects of energy management, such as electricity distribution and renewable energy development, fall under the purview of the states.
    • The Union government has worked with state governments to align policies, implement joint programs, and facilitate the integration of renewable energy into the national grid.
    • Initiatives like the Ujjwal DISCOM Assurance Yojana (UDAY) scheme have aimed to address the financial and operational challenges faced by state-owned electricity distribution companies.
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Maanas Deshmukh
  • 0
Maanas DeshmukhBegginer
Asked: September 14, 2024In:
  • 0

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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Adheesh Raman
  • 0
Adheesh RamanLearner
Asked: February 15, 2025In:
  • 0

Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction: Define non-conventional (renewable) energy sources. Highlight the growing importance of these sources in India’s energy strategy for sustainable development, energy security, and climate change mitigation. Briefly mention the government’s role in promoting renewable energy sources. Importance of Non-Conventional Energy: Energy Security: ...

upsc: energy resources
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction India has been increasingly emphasizing the use of non-conventional or renewable energy sources to address issues like energy security, climate change, and sustainable development. These sources, including solar, wind, biomass, and tidal energy, are gaining prominence in vaRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    India has been increasingly emphasizing the use of non-conventional or renewable energy sources to address issues like energy security, climate change, and sustainable development. These sources, including solar, wind, biomass, and tidal energy, are gaining prominence in various regions of India as part of the national strategy to reduce reliance on conventional fossil fuels.

    Growing Emphasis on Non-Conventional Energy in Different Regions

    • Solar Energy: India has set ambitious goals for solar power development, aiming for 175 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2022, with a significant share dedicated to solar energy. States like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka have been leaders in implementing large-scale solar parks and rooftop solar installations.
      • Fact: Rajasthan alone has a vast area of solar parks, contributing to India’s solar power capacity.
    • Wind Energy: States such as Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Gujarat have high wind potential and have developed extensive wind farms. The government has incentivized wind energy with policies like feed-in tariffs and competitive bidding to promote growth.
      • Fact: Tamil Nadu leads India’s wind energy production with a significant share of the total installed wind capacity.
    • Hydropower: While primarily a conventional energy source, small hydropower projects are being developed in states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim to utilize hydropower sustainably.
      • Fact: The government has promoted small hydropower projects to minimize ecological impacts and balance renewable energy supply.
    • Biomass and Bioenergy: Agricultural states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh are leveraging agricultural residues and organic waste for biomass and biogas energy. This promotes rural development and provides clean energy.
      • Fact: Biogas plants in rural areas are used for both energy generation and waste management.
    • Geothermal and Tidal Energy: Regions like Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir have potential for geothermal energy, while coastal states such as Gujarat and Tamil Nadu are exploring tidal energy projects.
      • Fact: The government is exploring tidal energy along India’s coasts to harness the power of ocean tides.

    Government Initiatives

    The Indian government has introduced several initiatives to promote renewable energy:

    • The National Solar Mission aims for 100 GW of solar power by 2022.
    • Pradhan Mantri- Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan focuses on harnessing solar energy for farmers.
    • The Renewable Purchase Obligation mandates electricity distribution companies to procure energy from renewable sources.
    • Fiscal incentives, international collaborations, and targets like 450 GW of renewable energy by 2030 further support the sector.

    Conclusion

    India’s growing focus on non-conventional energy sources across different regions reflects its commitment to sustainable development, energy security, and environmental preservation. With continued support and innovation, India aims to lead in the global renewable energy sector.

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Adheesh Raman
  • 0
Adheesh RamanLearner
Asked: January 29, 2025In:
  • 0

Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Define non-conventional (renewable) energy sources (solar, wind, hydro, biomass, geothermal, etc.). Briefly introduce India’s growing energy needs and the importance of securing energy independence. State the role of non-conventional energy sources in addressing these challenges. Body Role of Non-Conventional Energy Sources ...

upsc: energy resources
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction Non-conventional energy sources, also known as renewable energy sources, are essential for India’s energy security. These sources, including solar, wind, hydro, and biomass, are sustainable, environmentally friendly, and naturally replenishing. Their role is becoming increaRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    Non-conventional energy sources, also known as renewable energy sources, are essential for India’s energy security. These sources, including solar, wind, hydro, and biomass, are sustainable, environmentally friendly, and naturally replenishing. Their role is becoming increasingly significant in supplementing the country’s existing hydrocarbon resources.

    Role in Energy Security

    1. Diversification of Energy Mix:
      Non-conventional energy sources, such as solar and wind, contribute to diversifying India’s energy mix. As of 2021, renewable energy accounted for 24% of India’s total installed power capacity, with solar and wind power leading the way. The government’s target to achieve 175 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2022, including 100 GW from solar and 60 GW from wind, highlights the growing importance of these sources.
    2. Energy Independence:
      By utilizing non-conventional energy, India can reduce its dependency on imported hydrocarbons. Currently, India imports over 80% of its crude oil and around 45% of its natural gas needs. Solar power projects in states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu are already helping reduce reliance on coal-fired power and imported coal.
    3. Environmental Benefits:
      Non-conventional energy sources contribute significantly to environmental sustainability by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. For example, India’s renewable energy capacity has helped avoid approximately 49 million tons of CO2 emissions annually, showcasing the environmental advantages over traditional hydrocarbon resources.

    Complementing Hydrocarbon Resources

    1. Solar Energy: Installing solar panels on rooftops reduces reliance on conventional power sources.
    2. Wind Energy: Wind farms supplement electricity production.
    3. Biomass: Biomass, such as bioethanol, offers an alternative fuel for transportation.
    4. Hydropower and Geothermal: Hydropower plants and geothermal energy can supplement the power supply, especially in remote areas.

    Conclusion

    Non-conventional energy sources are crucial in ensuring India’s energy security. By complementing the country’s hydrocarbon resources, they pave the way for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable energy future.

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Rajashree Shirke
  • 0
Rajashree ShirkeLearner
Asked: January 25, 2025In:
  • 0

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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Anita Ratnam
  • 0
Anita RatnamLearner
Asked: January 22, 2025In:
  • 0

Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Define Tidal Energy: Begin with a brief definition of tidal energy as a renewable energy source derived from the rise and fall of ocean tides. Highlight Potential in India: Mention India’s geographical advantage with its long coastline ...

upsc: energy resources
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer 1. Potential of Tidal Energy in India India's vast coastline and specific geographical features provide significant opportunities for tidal energy generation: Geographical Scope: With a coastline of approximately 7,500 km, India holds substantial tidal energy potential. Estimated CapaciRead more

    Model Answer

    1. Potential of Tidal Energy in India

    India’s vast coastline and specific geographical features provide significant opportunities for tidal energy generation:

    • Geographical Scope: With a coastline of approximately 7,500 km, India holds substantial tidal energy potential.
    • Estimated Capacity: The theoretical potential is about 12,455 MW, distributed across key regions:
      • Gulf of Khambat: 7,000 MW.
      • Gulf of Kutch: 1,200 MW.
      • Sundarbans (Gangetic Delta): 100 MW.
    • Tidal Range: A tidal range of at least 7 meters is essential for economic operation. Gujarat, with the highest tidal range in India (9–11 m), is particularly suitable for tidal energy projects.

    2. Challenges in Harnessing Tidal Energy

    a. Lack of Detailed Studies

    • Comprehensive assessments of the economic viability and ecological impacts of tidal energy projects are absent.
    • Fact: Potential impacts on food security and the livelihoods of coastal communities remain unexplored.

    b. High Capital Costs

    • The exorbitant initial investment for tidal energy infrastructure limits widespread adoption.
    • Fact: This financial barrier discourages private and public stakeholders from venturing into the sector.

    c. Environmental Risks

    • Tidal projects in ecologically sensitive zones, like the Gulf of Kutch and Sundarbans, pose threats to biodiversity.
    • Fact: Such risks necessitate careful evaluation to ensure environmental sustainability.

    d. Lack of Research and Development (R&D)

    • Insufficient R&D funding in renewable energy undermines innovation and cost reduction.
    • Fact: Budget cuts in R&D stifle growth and progress in the tidal energy sector.

    e. Policy Gaps

    • The absence of a dedicated tidal energy policy creates uncertainty, hampers investment, and slows progress.

    3. Way Forward

    • Focus on R&D to improve technology and reduce costs.
    • Develop policies to encourage investment and ensure ecological sustainability.
    • Conduct comprehensive studies on socio-economic and environmental impacts to balance energy generation with community welfare.

    Tidal energy has immense potential to contribute to India’s sustainable energy goals if these challenges are effectively addressed.

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Kumudini Lakhia
  • 0
Kumudini LakhiaEnthusiast
Asked: January 20, 2025In:
  • 0

Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Briefly explain geothermal energy and its significance. E.g., Geothermal energy is a renewable, sustainable, and 24×7 energy source stored as heat beneath the Earth’s surface. It has a minimal carbon footprint and is unaffected by day-night ...

upsc: energy resources
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Puga Valley, Ladakh: Known as India's most promising geothermal field, it has high heat flow and geothermal springs. Tatapani, Chhattisgarh: Located in the Sarguja district, this site has been extensively studied for its geothermal potential. Manikaran, Himachal Pradesh: A well-known siRead more

    Model Answer

    1. Puga Valley, Ladakh: Known as India’s most promising geothermal field, it has high heat flow and geothermal springs.
    2. Tatapani, Chhattisgarh: Located in the Sarguja district, this site has been extensively studied for its geothermal potential.
    3. Manikaran, Himachal Pradesh: A well-known site with geothermal springs, often visited for its religious significance.
    4. Bakreswar, West Bengal: Features geothermal manifestations like hot springs with potential for energy production.
    5. Cambay Basin, Gujarat: Offers potential for geothermal energy development due to its favorable geological conditions.
    6. Tattapani, Jharkhand: A smaller site with potential for localized geothermal energy projects.

    Reasons for India’s Nascent Stage in Geothermal Energy Utilization

    1. Availability of Alternative Energy Sources:
      • India historically relied on abundant and inexpensive coal for energy.
      • The focus has shifted to solar, wind, and green hydrogen under missions like the National Green Hydrogen Mission.
    2. High Initial Costs:
      • Developing a geothermal power plant costs $2-$7 million per megawatt.
      • Significant upfront investment is required for exploration, drilling, and plant setup.
    3. Technical Challenges:
      • Deep drilling operations require expertise, which has only recently become available in India.
    4. Restricted Locations:
      • Geothermal plants need to be close to reservoirs due to the impracticality of transporting steam or hot water.
      • Most geothermal sites are in remote areas, complicating grid connectivity.
    5. Limited Awareness and Policy Push:
      • Compared to solar and wind energy, geothermal energy lacks widespread awareness and government incentives.

    Steps Toward Development

    India aims to harness 10 GW of geothermal energy by 2030 through international collaborations with nations like the US and New Zealand. With its reliability and low carbon footprint, geothermal energy can significantly enhance India’s energy mix as infrastructure and expertise improve.

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Kumudini Lakhia
  • 0
Kumudini LakhiaEnthusiast
Asked: January 20, 2025In:
  • 0

Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Define natural gas and its role in energy systems. Briefly state India’s energy transition goals, including the aim to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070 and the plan to increase natural gas’s share in the energy mix from ...

upsc: energy resources
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Define natural gas and its role in energy systems. Briefly state India's energy transition goals, including the aim to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070 and the plan to increase natural gas’s share in the energy mix from 6.6% to 15% by 2030. 2Read more

    Model Answer

    Roadmap for Answer Writing

    1. Introduction

    • Define natural gas and its role in energy systems.
    • Briefly state India’s energy transition goals, including the aim to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070 and the plan to increase natural gas’s share in the energy mix from 6.6% to 15% by 2030.

    2. Body

    I. Role of Natural Gas in Bridging India’s Energy Transition

    • Short-term Energy Transition:
      • Acts as a cleaner alternative to coal, with coal-to-gas switching reducing emissions by 50%.
      • Supports emissions reduction during the ramp-up of renewable energy capacity.
      • Fact: Natural gas currently constitutes 6.6% of India’s energy mix but is targeted to rise to 15% by 2030.
    • Grid Stability and Backup for Renewables:
      • Provides reliable energy during periods of intermittency in solar and wind power.
      • Balances demand fluctuations to stabilize the grid.
    • Industrial and Transportation Transition:
      • Replaces coal in industrial processes, lowering emissions in sectors like manufacturing and refining.
      • Supports the transition to hydrogen energy, as natural gas is a key input in hydrogen production.

    II. Challenges in Natural Gas Adoption

    • High Import Dependence:
      • India imports over 50% of its natural gas as LNG, making it vulnerable to price volatility.
      • Fact: Global infrastructure and price disparities hinder India’s ability to secure low-cost natural gas.
    • High Infrastructure and Regulatory Costs:
      • Significant upfront costs for LNG terminals, pipelines, and regasification plants.
      • A steep and varied taxation regime across states.
    • Emerging Alternatives:
      • Biogas and compressed biogas (CBG) are cleaner, renewable alternatives gaining traction.
      • Fact: CBG can replace compressed natural gas (CNG) in vehicles, reducing dependency on fossil-based fuels.

    III. Opportunities and Strategies

    • Invest in LNG infrastructure and reduce regulatory bottlenecks.
    • Promote technology for biogas and hydrogen production alongside natural gas adoption.
    • Leverage public-private partnerships to scale up natural gas access and usage.

    3. Conclusion

    • Reiterate that natural gas can act as a transitional bridge fuel, addressing energy reliability and emissions reduction in the short to medium term.
    • Emphasize the need for complementary investments in renewables and sustainable energy alternatives for long-term energy security and climate goals.

    Relevant Facts

    1. Emission Reduction: Coal-to-gas switching reduces emissions by 50% .
    2. Import Dependency: India relies on imports for over 50% of its natural gas deman.
    3. Hydrogen Production: Natural gas is a major input for hydrogen, which is critical for heavy transportation decarbonization .

    This roadmap ensures a balanced and comprehensive answer structure while integrating relevant facts for analytical depth.

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Hrithika Sundar
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Hrithika SundarBegginer
Asked: January 4, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction: Contextualizing India’s Energy Potential India has vast energy resources, including coal, solar, wind, hydropower, and biomass, but it faces significant challenges in fully harnessing these resources to meet the growing energy demand of its population and economy. India’s energy ...

upsc: energy resources
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    Model Answer Key Challenges India Faces in Harnessing Its Energy Potential India has significant renewable energy potential, particularly in solar power, due to its vast sunny and semi-arid regions. However, several challenges hinder the country’s ability to fully utilize this potential. High ImportRead more

    Model Answer

    Key Challenges India Faces in Harnessing Its Energy Potential

    India has significant renewable energy potential, particularly in solar power, due to its vast sunny and semi-arid regions. However, several challenges hinder the country’s ability to fully utilize this potential.

    1. High Import Dependency: Over 80% of India’s solar photovoltaic modules are imported, primarily from China. Despite policies like Production Linked Incentives (PLIs) and Basic Customs Duty (BCD), local manufacturing has not sufficiently scaled up (Source: 2022 data).
    2. Financing Issues: Maintaining subsidies and tax cuts for solar energy is challenging, especially with stressed finances of state governments and distribution companies (discoms). Achieving cost parity with conventional energy sources like thermal power is also a long-term goal.
    3. Transmission & Distribution (T&D) Losses: T&D losses in India are around 40%, making solar energy generation less feasible due to inefficiencies in the grid system.
    4. Land Acquisition: Acquiring large, open spaces for solar plants remains difficult, with delays and cost overruns in planned projects.

    India’s renewable energy future depends on overcoming these obstacles through improved financing, policy reforms, and enhanced technological cooperation.

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