Hindu Editorial Analysis : 5-April-2024
The Indian government is introducing a policy aimed at reducing reliance on imported solar panels. This move is part of a broader strategy to boost domestic manufacturing and promote sustainable energy practices.
About the Solar Energy Sector
Solar energy is one of the most abundant and clean energy resources available. India has vast potential for harnessing solar power due to its favorable climate. Solar energy can be utilized in three main ways:
- Photovoltaic (PV) Cells: Directly converting sunlight into electricity.
- Concentrating Solar Power (CSP): Using mirrors to focus sunlight to generate heat.
- Solar Thermal Collectors: For heating and cooling purposes.
Driving Forces Behind India’s Solar Power Plan
India enjoys around 250 to 300 sunny days each year, receiving an estimated 5,000 trillion kWh of solar energy annually. This abundant sunlight makes solar energy an attractive alternative, especially in light of:
- Air Pollution: Increasing pollution from fossil fuels highlights the need for cleaner energy.
- Government Initiatives: Policies and financial incentives aim to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2070 and fulfill 50% of electricity needs through renewable sources.
As a result, India has set an ambitious target of 500 GW from non-fossil sources by 2030, positioning solar energy as a crucial component in reaching these goals.
Benefits of Solar Energy
The shift to solar energy brings numerous advantages:
- Distributed Power Generation: Enables power generation close to consumption sites.
- Energy Security: Solar energy is abundantly available and reduces dependence on imports.
- Social and Economic Improvements:
- Reduces the burden on rural women who gather fuel.
- Minimizes health risks from smoke inhalation.
- Generates local employment opportunities.
- Enhances living standards and promotes economic activities in villages.
Related Initiatives
The Indian government has initiated several programs to promote solar energy:
- National Solar Mission (NSM): Part of India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change.
- PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijlee Yojana: Provides free electricity to one crore households installing rooftop solar units.
- International Solar Alliance (ISA): A collaborative platform aimed at increasing solar energy deployment globally.
Additionally, policies have been enacted to support domestic manufacturers, including:
- Allowing 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
- Waiving certain charges for solar power sales.
- Implementing registration requirements for solar panel manufacturers.
Challenges and Concerns
Despite these initiatives, challenges remain:
- Installed Capacity: As of December 2023, solar capacity reached only 73.31 GW, with rooftop installations at 11.08 GW.
- Limited Growth: Issues such as lack of consumer awareness, high costs, and inconsistent policies hinder progress.
- Import Reliance: Many solar installations rely on imported panels, affecting local manufacturers.
The policy’s goal is to promote domestic production, but it faces hurdles such as certification costs and competition from cheaper imports.
Why In News
The government is bringing into effect a policy that will discourage solar power project developers from relying on imported panels, aiming to strengthen domestic manufacturing and foster innovation in the renewable energy sector.
MCQs about India’s Solar Energy Policy
- What is the primary goal of the Indian government’s new solar energy policy?
A. To increase imports of solar panels
B. To discourage reliance on imported solar panels
C. To eliminate solar energy projects
D. To reduce sunlight exposure
- Which of the following methods is NOT mentioned as a way to harness solar energy in India?
A. Photovoltaic (PV) cells
B. Concentrating Solar Power (CSP)
C. Wind turbines
D. Solar thermal collectors
- What is a significant environmental benefit of increasing solar energy use in India?
A. Decrease in the cost of solar panels
B. Reduction in air pollution caused by fossil fuels
C. Increased reliance on imported energy
D. Expansion of fossil fuel usage
- What initiative is part of India’s strategy to enhance solar energy deployment?
A. Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM)
B. International Solar Coalition
C. National Gas Mission
D. Electric Vehicle Promotion Program
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