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India is on the brink of a major transformation in its energy sector, with plans to significantly increase the nation's energy capacity. What factors contribute to making this transformation both sustainable and inclusive? ( 200 Words)
Model Answer Introduction India's energy sector is undergoing a significant transformation aimed at increasing its energy capacity, with a strong focus on sustainability and inclusivity. Several key factors contribute to this transformation: Sustainability of India’s Energy Transformation RenewableRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
India’s energy sector is undergoing a significant transformation aimed at increasing its energy capacity, with a strong focus on sustainability and inclusivity. Several key factors contribute to this transformation:
Sustainability of India’s Energy Transformation
India’s commitment to renewable energy is at the core of its sustainable energy transformation. From 2014 to 2023, India’s cumulative renewable energy capacity surged from 35 GW to 174.53 GW, with a target of 500 GW by 2030. This growth highlights India’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and meeting global climate goals.
Energy efficiency is crucial for sustainability. The National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE) promotes energy-efficient practices across sectors, reducing energy consumption while meeting growing demands.
India is investing heavily in innovative energy solutions. For example, the Green Hydrogen Mission aims to develop green hydrogen as a clean energy storage solution, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and enhancing energy security.
Inclusivity of India’s Energy Transformation
India’s energy transformation is also gender-inclusive, with policies addressing women’s unique needs. The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, which provides LPG connections to women, reduces health risks associated with traditional biomass fuels, empowering women and improving their quality of life.
Ensuring equitable access to energy is vital for poverty alleviation. The Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana (Saubhagya) aims to achieve universal household electrification, ensuring that no household is left behind in the energy transition.
Local communities are engaged through initiatives like the PM-Kusum scheme, which provides subsidies for solar irrigation pumps, and the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, which supports residential rooftop solar panel installation, creating grassroots participation in the energy transformation.
Conclusion
While India’s energy transformation is both sustainable and inclusive, challenges like high transmission losses and financing remain. However, continued policy commitment and investment are crucial for achieving long-term success.
See lessIndia is promoting Energy Storage Systems (ESS) as an integral part of its power infrastructure. What are the benefits associated with Energy Storage Systems (ESS)? Comment on the policy initiatives offered by the government for its promotion.(200 Words)
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)
Government Policy Initiatives
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.
See lessWhat is the current status of Decentralized Renewable Energy (DRE) adoption, and what are the key challenges hindering its widespread implementation?(200 Words)
Model Answer India has made considerable progress in adopting Decentralized Renewable Energy (DRE), focusing on generating and utilizing renewable energy at the point of consumption. As of now, there are over 500,000 DRE installations across the country, including technologies such as solar-poweredRead more
Model Answer
India has made considerable progress in adopting Decentralized Renewable Energy (DRE), focusing on generating and utilizing renewable energy at the point of consumption. As of now, there are over 500,000 DRE installations across the country, including technologies such as solar-powered irrigation and pumps. In 2021, approximately 179 million people gained access to electricity through DRE solutions, a significant increase from just 35 million in 2012. In 2022, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy launched a framework to promote DRE livelihood applications, aiming to enhance access to sustainable energy in rural and remote areas. This underscores the growing importance of DRE in meeting India’s renewable energy goals.
Key Challenges in DRE Adoption
1. Policy and Regulatory Barriers
2. Financial and Investment Challenges
3. Technical Challenges
Conclusion
To overcome these challenges, India must implement stronger policy incentives, attract increased private sector participation, and support the development of emerging technologies in DRE. The government, in collaboration with the private sector, can play a crucial role in promoting DRE through improved financing models, regulatory frameworks, and technological adoption.
See lessWhat are the key challenges India faces in expanding its nuclear energy infrastructure to meet its net-zero targets?(200 Words)
Model Answer Key Challenges in Expanding Nuclear Energy in India India faces several significant challenges in expanding its nuclear energy infrastructure to meet its net-zero emission targets. These include issues related to resource dependency, investment barriers, and social concerns. 1. Import DRead more
Model Answer
Key Challenges in Expanding Nuclear Energy in India
India faces several significant challenges in expanding its nuclear energy infrastructure to meet its net-zero emission targets. These include issues related to resource dependency, investment barriers, and social concerns.
1. Import Dependency
India’s nuclear energy infrastructure is heavily reliant on imports for uranium, which raises sustainability concerns. Between 2019-2022, India imported over 7,600 tonnes of uranium, primarily from Kazakhstan and Canada. This import dependency makes the long-term sustainability of nuclear energy uncertain and exposes the country to global supply chain disruptions. Investment Barriers The high capital cost of building nuclear power plants, along with prolonged profitability horizons, presents a significant investment challenge. Nuclear projects are capital-intensive and have long lead times, often extending beyond a decade. Licensing and regulatory hurdles further delay project timelines, deterring both domestic and foreign investment .
2. Energy
Nuclear energy is more expensive compared to other renewable sources. The levelized cost of energy (LCOE) from solar and wind energy stands at approximately $40 per megawatt-hour, while nuclear plants average around $175 per megawatt-hour. This cost disparity makes nuclear energy less competitive, especially as India pushes for more affordable and sustainable energy sources .
3. Wast
The disposal and storage of nuclear waste remain a major concern. Nuclear waste remains hazardous for long periods, requiring secure storage solutions. India currently lacks a comprehensive and long-term plan for managing nuclear waste, which complicates the expansion of nuclear energy .
4. Land Acquisitcal Opposition
Acquiring land for new nuclear power plants is a complex process, often hampered by legal challenges, local opposition, and competing land uses. For example, the proposed installation of six French reactors in Maharashtra has faced delays due to land acquisition difficulties and local protests .
5. Water Scarcity
Nuclelants require significant amounts of water for cooling reactors. As many rivers and water bodies are facing depletion, the availability of reliable water sources for these plants is becoming increasingly uncertain .
To meet its net-zero goals, India must ade challenges by enhancing its resource security, investing in technological innovations for waste management, and fostering public and investor support for nuclear energy expansion.
See lessWhat challenges does India encounter in achieving energy security, and what recent measures have been implemented to address these challenges? (200 words)
Model Answer Challenges to India's Energy Security Policy-related Issues India struggles to attract substantial international investment in domestic hydrocarbon exploration. Notably, initiatives like the New Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP) and the Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HERead more
Model Answer
Challenges to India’s Energy Security
India struggles to attract substantial international investment in domestic hydrocarbon exploration. Notably, initiatives like the New Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP) and the Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP) have not generated the anticipated interest from global energy players. Delays due to regulatory and environmental clearances further hinder coal mining and domestic energy production .
Over 80% of India’s energy needs rely on coal, oil, and natural gas, of which the country has limited domestic reserves. This dependency drives up the import bill, increases fuel subsidies, and worsens the Current Account Deficit (CAD), exposing the economy to price volatility in the global market .
In rural areas, biomass constitutes around 85-90% of primary fuel for cooking, posing health risks due to indoor air pollution. The lack of skilled labor and developed infrastructure impedes progress in making energy accessible across all regions (source: provided content).
Global political tensions, such as those between the USA and Iran, complicate India’s energy imports. These geopolitical dynamics force India to adjust its import strategy, as seen with reduced oil imports from Iran .
Measures Implemented for Energy Security
- Efficiency Enhancement Initiatives
- Strategic Petroleum Reserves
- Policy and Scenario Planning
- Energy Diplomacy and Accessibility
See lessIndia launched the National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency, which conducts cost-benefit analyses on energy-efficient technologies across sectors. Additionally, BS VI vehicle fuel efficiency standards were introduced in 2020 to reduce emissions .
The establishment of strategic petroleum reserves under the Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Ltd. aims to mitigate supply disruptions due to external crises, such as conflicts or natural disasters .
The India Energy Security Scenarios, 2047, launched by NITI Aayog, enables India to model future energy scenarios and prioritize renewable energy. India aims to source 50% of its energy from renewables by 2030.
The Indo-US Nuclear Deal enhances India’s nuclear energy capabilities. Programs like the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana promote clean cooking fuel in rural areas, and the PM KUSUM scheme supports solar irrigation. Additionally, “Energy Atmanirbharta” by 2040 aims to boost energy self-sufficiency
Give an account of the current status and the targets to be achieved pertaining to renewable energy sources in the country. Discuss in brief the importance of National Programme on Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). (200 words) [UPSC 2016]
Current Status and Targets of Renewable Energy Sources in India 1. Current Status: India has made significant strides in the renewable energy sector over recent years. As of 2024: Installed Capacity: India’s total installed renewable energy capacity has reached approximately 200 GW, contributing aboRead more
Current Status and Targets of Renewable Energy Sources in India
1. Current Status:
India has made significant strides in the renewable energy sector over recent years. As of 2024:
2. Targets:
India has ambitious goals under its National Renewable Energy Mission:
3. Importance of the National Programme on Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs):
a. Energy Efficiency:
The National Programme on LEDs aims to promote the use of energy-efficient LED lighting across the country. It is crucial for reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. For example, the Prakash Path Programme has led to the installation of over 36 crore LED bulbs, significantly reducing electricity demand.
b. Cost Savings:
LED lighting offers substantial cost savings due to its low energy consumption and long lifespan. It has resulted in reduced electricity bills for households and institutions.
c. Environmental Impact:
By replacing incandescent bulbs with LEDs, India is decreasing its carbon footprint, thereby contributing to global climate change mitigation efforts.
d. Government Initiatives:
The UJALA Scheme (Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All) has been pivotal in this transition, making LED bulbs more accessible and affordable to the general public.
Conclusion:
India’s focus on expanding renewable energy and promoting LED lighting underscores its commitment to sustainable development and energy efficiency. The targets and initiatives reflect a strategic approach towards meeting the country’s growing energy needs while addressing environmental concerns.
See lessWith growing energy needs should India keep on expanding its nuclear energy programme? Discuss the facts and fears associated with nuclear energy. (250 words) [UPSC 2018]
Expanding India's Nuclear Energy Programme: Facts and Fears 1. Facts Supporting Expansion: Growing Energy Demands: India’s energy needs are rapidly increasing due to its economic growth, industrial expansion, and population rise. Nuclear energy offers a stable, high-output source of electricity to mRead more
Expanding India’s Nuclear Energy Programme: Facts and Fears
1. Facts Supporting Expansion:
2. Fears and Concerns:
3. Recent Examples:
4. Conclusion: India’s decision to expand its nuclear energy program should weigh the benefits of meeting growing energy needs and reducing greenhouse gas emissions against the risks of nuclear accidents, waste management, and security concerns. A cautious approach that incorporates advanced technologies, stringent safety protocols, and robust waste management strategies can mitigate the fears associated with nuclear energy while capitalizing on its potential to contribute significantly to India’s energy security and sustainability.
See lessDescribe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to the conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our Government for this purpose? (250 words) [UPSC 2020]
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
Government Initiatives for Solar Energy
These initiatives are designed to accelerate the adoption of solar energy, enhance energy security, and contribute to sustainable development.
See lessDo you think India will meet 50 percent of its energy needs from renewable energy by 2030? Justify your answer. How will the shift of subsidies from fossil fuels to renewables help achieve the above objective ? Explain. (250 words) [UPSC 2022]
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:
**2. Recent Developments:
**3. Role of Subsidy Shift in Achieving Targets:
**4. Challenges and Mitigation:
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.
See lessDiscuss the role of the government's initiatives, such as the National Hydrogen Mission and the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for solar PV manufacturing, in promoting the development of domestic capabilities and the integration of the Indian energy sector with global value chains, and evaluate the long-term implications for the country's energy security and competitiveness.
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:
Implications for Energy Security and Competitiveness:
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:
Implications for Energy Security and Competitiveness:
Evaluation of Long-Term Implications
1. Strengthening Domestic Capabilities:
2. Integration with Global Value Chains:
3. Energy Security and Competitiveness:
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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