Hindu Editorial Analysis : 24-May-2023

The Indian government’s recent decision to invite bids for 50 GW of renewable energy capacity annually for the next five years marks a significant step towards achieving a sustainable future. This essay explores the importance of renewable energy, common sources of renewable energy, India’s current renewable energy capacity, upcoming plans, major initiatives, and reasons for the growth of renewable energy.

Renewable and Non-renewable Resources of Energy:

Renewable energy refers to energy derived from natural sources that are replenished at a higher rate than they are consumed. On the other hand, non-renewable energy sources, such as fossil fuels (coal, oil, and gas), are finite and take millions of years to form. When burned, fossil fuels emit harmful greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change.

Significance of Renewable Resources of Energy:
  1. Addressing the Climate Crisis: Transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy is crucial in addressing the climate crisis. Renewable energy generation produces significantly lower emissions compared to burning fossil fuels, which are the primary contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
  2. Cost-Effectiveness and Job Creation: Renewable energy sources have become cheaper than fossil fuels in most countries. Additionally, the renewable energy sector generates three times more jobs than the fossil fuel industry. Moreover, the maintenance costs associated with renewable energy sources are comparatively low.
  3. Atmanirbhar Bharat: Investments by the private sector in renewable energy align with the Indian government’s objective of self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat). Such investments not only contribute to fulfilling the government’s vision but also create employment opportunities within the country.
Common Sources of Renewable Energy:
  1. Solar Energy: Solar energy is the most abundant renewable energy resource, with the potential to be harnessed even in cloudy weather. The Earth intercepts solar energy at a rate approximately 10,000 times greater than current energy consumption.
  2. Wind Energy: Wind energy harnesses the kinetic energy of moving air through large wind turbines located on land (onshore) or in freshwater or seawater (offshore).
  3. Geothermal Energy: Geothermal energy utilizes the thermal energy accessible from the Earth’s interior. Heat is extracted from geothermal reservoirs using wells or other means.
  4. Hydropower: Hydropower harnesses the energy of water moving from higher to lower elevations. It can be generated from reservoirs and rivers, with reservoir hydropower plants relying on stored water and run-of-river plants utilizing the flow of the river.
  5. Ocean Energy: Ocean energy technologies capture the kinetic and thermal energy of seawater, such as waves or currents, to generate electricity or heat.
  6. Bioenergy: Bioenergy is produced from organic materials called biomass, including wood, charcoal, and agricultural crops. It is used for heat and power production, especially in rural areas and developing countries.
Renewable Energy Capacity in India:

India currently has a total renewable energy capacity of 168.96 GW, including solar power (64.38 GW), hydro power (51.79 GW), wind power (42.02 GW), and bio power (10.77 GW). The government’s upcoming plans include inviting bids for 50 GW of renewable energy capacity annually for the next five years.

Why In News

This significant move by the government entails inviting bids for an impressive 50 GW of renewable energy capacity each year over the course of the next five years, signaling their commitment to sustainable energy development.

MCQs about India’s Transition to Renewable Energy

  1. What is the primary reason for transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy?
    A. To reduce energy costs
    B. To address the climate crisis
    C. To create more job opportunities
    D. To promote self-reliance in the energy sector
    Correct Answer: B. To address the climate crisis
    Explanation: The renewable energy generates lower emissions compared to fossil fuels, making it a crucial step in combating climate change.
  2. Which of the following is NOT a common source of renewable energy?
    A. Solar energy
    B. Wind energy
    C. Natural gas
    D. Hydropower
    Correct Answer: C. Natural gas
    Explanation: solar energy, wind energy, hydropower, geothermal energy, ocean energy, and bioenergy as common sources of renewable energy.
  3. Which major initiative in India focuses on promoting the use of solar energy?
    A. National Solar Mission (NSM)
    B. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM)
    C. Atal Jyoti Yojana (AJAY) Phase-II
    D. Solar Parks Scheme
    Correct Answer: A. National Solar Mission (NSM)
    Explanation: The NSM as an initiative aimed at promoting the use of solar energy and increasing its share in India’s energy mix.

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