Roadmap for Answer Writing

Introduction

• Context: Start by providing a brief introduction to India’s energy transformation. Mention the current state of India’s energy sector and its ambitious goals for the future.
• Goal: Highlight India’s target of increasing its energy capacity, especially renewable energy, to 500 GW by 2030.

Example:
India’s energy sector is undergoing a transformative shift, with ambitious plans to increase its capacity significantly, particularly in renewable energy. The country aims to achieve 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, reflecting its commitment to sustainable and inclusive energy solutions.

Sustainability of India’s Energy Transformation

Focus on how India is making its energy transition sustainable through renewable energy, energy efficiency, and research/innovation.

1. Renewable Energy Expansion
   • Fact: India’s renewable energy capacity grew from 35 GW in 2014 to 174.53 GW in 2023, and the target is 500 GW by 2030.
   • Explanation: Discuss India’s heavy investment in solar, wind, and other renewable sources to reduce carbon emissions and meet climate commitments.
2. Energy Efficiency Measures
   • Fact: The National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE) promotes energy efficiency across sectors.
   • Explanation: Highlight energy efficiency programs and their importance in reducing energy consumption while maintaining growth.
3. Research and Innovation
   • Fact: The Green Hydrogen Mission focuses on developing a green hydrogen industry to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
   • Explanation: Explain how India’s commitment to research and innovation, such as the Green Hydrogen Mission, is paving the way for a sustainable energy future.

Inclusivity of India’s Energy Transformation

Discuss how India ensures its energy transformation is inclusive, addressing the needs of all sections of society, particularly marginalized groups.

1. Gender Inclusivity
   • Fact: The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana provides LPG connections to women, reducing health risks from traditional biomass cooking fuels.
   • Explanation: Describe how this initiative benefits women by empowering them with cleaner cooking options and reducing health hazards.
2. Equitable Access to Energy
   • Fact: The Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana (Saubhagya) aims to achieve universal household electrification.
   • Explanation: Discuss how the Saubhagya scheme ensures equitable energy access, particularly in rural and remote areas, contributing to poverty alleviation and inclusive growth.
3. Community Engagement
   • Fact: PM-Kusum provides subsidies for solar irrigation pumps, and PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana offers subsidies for rooftop solar panels.
   • Explanation: Explain how community-focused schemes like these ensure that local communities are actively involved in and benefit from India’s energy transformation.

Challenges

Acknowledge the challenges India faces in its energy transition, such as high transmission and distribution (T&D) losses, financing the transition, and ensuring grid reliability. Discuss how overcoming these challenges requires sustained policy commitment and investment.

Example:
Despite the progress, India faces challenges like high transmission and distribution losses, which impact the efficiency of energy delivery. Financing the transition and ensuring grid stability also remain key concerns. Addressing these issues will require consistent policy support and investments in infrastructure.

Conclusion

Summarize how the combination of sustainability-focused policies and inclusivity-driven initiatives positions India for a successful energy transformation.

Example:
In conclusion, India’s energy transformation is both sustainable and inclusive due to its focus on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and innovation. The integration of gender and community-inclusive policies ensures that no one is left behind as the country moves towards a greener and more equitable energy future.

Relevant Facts and Sources

1. Renewable Energy Growth:
   • Fact: India’s renewable capacity grew from 35 GW in 2014 to 174.53 GW in 2023. The target for 2030 is 500 GW.
2. Energy Efficiency:
   • Fact: The National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency promotes energy-efficient practices and technologies.
3. Green Hydrogen Mission:
   • Fact: The Green Hydrogen Mission is focused on reducing dependence on fossil fuels and developing clean energy storage solutions.
4. Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana:
   • Fact: The scheme provides LPG connections to women, improving health and empowering women in rural areas.
5. Saubhagya Scheme:
   • Fact: Aims to achieve universal household electrification, targeting rural and underserved households.
6. PM-Kusum and PM Surya Ghar Yojana:
   • Fact: These schemes provide financial incentives for solar irrigation and rooftop solar installations.