Hindu Editorial Analysis : 28-June-2024

The Indian government has recently introduced a policy aimed at reducing the reliance on imported solar panels for solar power projects. This initiative is crucial as India looks to harness its abundant solar energy resources and promote domestic manufacturing.

Understanding Solar Energy

Solar energy is one of the cleanest and most abundant energy sources available. India is blessed with significant solar potential, receiving 250 to 300 days of sunshine each year, translating to approximately 5,000 trillion kWh of solar energy annually. There are three main ways to utilize solar energy:

  • Photovoltaic (PV) Cells: Convert sunlight directly into electricity.
  • Concentrating Solar Power (CSP): Uses mirrors or lenses to focus sunlight for electricity generation.
  • Solar Thermal Collectors: Used for heating and cooling applications.

Driving Forces Behind India’s Solar Plan

India’s solar power plan is motivated by several factors:

  • High Solar Potential: The country’s geographical location allows for extensive sunshine.
  • Air Pollution: Solar energy offers a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels, which contribute to severe air pollution.
  • Government Initiatives: The government aims for net-zero carbon emissions by 2070 and targets 500 GW from non-fossil sources by 2030.

India ranks 4th globally in renewable energy capacity, making solar power a cornerstone of its energy strategy.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy provides numerous advantages:

  • Energy Security: Abundant and readily available, solar energy enhances energy security.
  • Economic Opportunities: It can reduce the burden on rural women and girls who often travel long distances for fuel wood.
  • Health Improvements: Using solar energy minimizes health risks associated with smoke from traditional cooking methods.
  • Employment Generation: Solar projects create job opportunities at the village level.
  • Sustainable Growth: It supports environmentally friendly development, improving living standards.

Related Government Initiatives

Several initiatives highlight the government’s commitment to solar energy:

  • National Solar Mission (NSM): Aims to promote and develop solar power in India.
  • PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijlee Yojana: Offers free electricity to one crore households installing rooftop solar units.
  • International Solar Alliance (ISA): A collaborative platform to increase solar energy deployment, initiated by India and France.
  • FDI Policies: Foreign investment in solar is encouraged, with 100% FDI allowed under the automatic route.

Challenges Ahead

Despite these initiatives, challenges persist:

  • Limited Growth: As of December 2023, India’s solar installed capacity was only 73.31 GW, with rooftop solar at around 11.08 GW.
  • Consumer Awareness: There is limited awareness among consumers regarding rooftop solar options.
  • High Costs: The initial investment for solar installations can be prohibitive.
  • Policy Uncertainty: Fluctuating regulations and uncertainty around net metering hinder rooftop solar growth.
  • Import Dependence: A significant portion of solar installations comes from imports, impacting domestic manufacturers.

Why In News

The government is implementing a policy aimed at discouraging solar power project developers from relying on imported panels, encouraging them instead to utilize domestically manufactured solar technology. This shift not only supports local industry but also strengthens India’s energy independence.

MCQs about India’s Solar Power Policy

  1. What is the primary goal of the Indian government’s new solar power policy?
    A. To promote the use of imported solar panels
    B. To encourage the use of domestically manufactured solar technology
    C. To reduce the amount of solar energy produced
    D. To decrease investment in renewable energy sources
    Correct Answer: B. To encourage the use of domestically manufactured solar technology
    Explanation: The government aims to discourage reliance on imported panels, promoting local manufacturing to enhance energy independence and support the domestic industry.
  2. Which of the following is NOT a method of utilizing solar energy ?
    A. Photovoltaic (PV) cells
    B. Biomass conversion
    C. Concentrating Solar Power (CSP)
    D. Solar thermal collectors
    Correct Answer: B. Biomass conversion
    Explanation: The essay discusses three specific methods of utilizing solar energy: PV cells, CSP, and solar thermal collectors. Biomass conversion is not mentioned in this context.
  3. What challenge is primarily hindering the growth of rooftop solar installations in India?
    A. Abundant sunshine availability
    B. High consumer awareness
    C. High initial capital costs
    D. Government support
    Correct Answer: C. High initial capital costs
    Explanation: The essay highlights that high initial investment costs are a significant barrier for many consumers considering rooftop solar installations, along with limited awareness and policy uncertainty.
  4. What initiative aims to provide free electricity to households that install rooftop solar units?
    A. Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission
    B. PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijlee Yojana
    C. International Solar Alliance
    D. National Action Plan on Climate Change
    Correct Answer: B. PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijlee Yojana
    Explanation: This initiative specifically focuses on providing free electricity to one crore households that opt to install rooftop solar electricity units.

Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions

Loading