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: ...
Model Answer Introduction India possesses immense potential for solar energy, with an estimated availability of 4,000 trillion kWh per year. This renewable energy source is a key element of India’s energy strategy, with a target of generating 100 GW of solar power out of 175 GW of total renewable enRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
India possesses immense potential for solar energy, with an estimated availability of 4,000 trillion kWh per year. This renewable energy source is a key element of India’s energy strategy, with a target of generating 100 GW of solar power out of 175 GW of total renewable energy by 2022, as outlined in the Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs). Currently, India has an installed solar capacity of 43 GW (Source: Ministry of New and Renewable Energy).
Regional Variations
Ideal Regions for Solar Energy
The desert areas of Rajasthan and Kutch in Gujarat are prime locations for solar energy generation due to their barren lands and high insolation levels. These regions receive abundant sunlight throughout the year, making them ideal for large-scale solar projects.
Low Potential Areas
Conversely, the Himalayan and northeastern regions of India have lower potential for solar energy generation. These areas experience challenging terrain and lower insolation levels, which limit the feasibility of solar energy projects.
Moderate Regions
Coastal states, such as Kerala, exhibit moderate solar energy potential. The long monsoon season affects solar generation compared to states in the heartland of India, which generally receive more consistent sunlight.
Rooftop Solar Potential
Urban areas offer significant opportunities for rooftop solar installations. The rooftop solar panel program can substantially contribute to India’s solar energy goals, especially in metropolitan cities where space is limited.
Challenges to Solar Energy Development
Despite the potential, several challenges hinder the solar energy program in India:
- Overproduction can lead to very low tariff rates, discouraging investment in solar projects.
- Poor integration of solar energy with the grid and difficulties in land acquisition for solar parks present significant obstacles.
- Technological barriers exist, particularly the dependency on lithium imports from China for photovoltaic (PV) cells.
- Lack of awareness and financial constraints hinder rooftop solar installations.
Conclusion
The Indian government has initiated several policies to bolster the solar energy market, including the SARAL Index, PM KUSUM, and floating solar plants in Gujarat. With its low carbon footprint, solar energy holds the potential to replace conventional energy sources and help India meet its commitments under the INDCs and the Panchamrit proposals presented at COP 26. Addressing regional variations and challenges will be crucial for harnessing India’s solar energy potential effectively.
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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
Government Initiatives
The Indian government has introduced several initiatives to promote renewable energy:
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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