Recent news has brought to light the organisation of the first-ever World Solar Technology Summit (WSTS). This event, a joint venture between the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), is a landmark in the realm of solar technology.
Key Objectives of WSTS
The main goals of the summit were multifold. Firstly, it aimed to present the state of the art and future advancements in solar technologies on a global level to member countries. Secondly, the event was designed to facilitate meeting and discussion opportunities for decision-makers and stakeholders. These discussions were centered around individual priorities and strategic agendas towards larger integration. Finally, the summit focused on discussing recent advancements in solar technologies, taking into account aspects such as cost, technology transfers, challenges, and concerns within the field.
India’s Role in Renewable Energy Deployment
Despite having one of the world’s lowest per capita carbon emissions, India is making substantial progress in deploying renewable energy at a rapid pace for reducing carbon footprints. India has managed to increase its installed renewable capacity by 2.5 times and raised its solar installed capacity more than 13 times. This has positioned India 4th globally in terms of renewable power.
Non-Fossil Fuel Power Generation
India has effectively scaled up non-fossil fuel-based power generation to 134GW, accounting for about 35% of total power generation. The projected increase in this sector is up to 220 GW by 2022.
India’s Support to ISA Member Countries
Through its Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme, India is extending significant capacity-building support to ISA member nations. A Project Preparation Facility has been implemented with the assistance of the Export-Import (EXIM) Bank of India, aimed at developing bankable Solar Energy projects within ISA member countries.
Lines of Credit for Solar Projects
India announced a whopping USD 1.4 billion worth of lines of credit (LOCs) in 2018, covering 27 solar projects across 15 nations. These projects are currently at various implementation stages.
Solar Energy and India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change
Solar energy holds a pivotal place in India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change. The National Solar Mission, launched in January 2010, seeks to establish India as a global leader in solar energy by swiftly creating ideal policy conditions for solar technology diffusion across the nation.
One Sun, One World, One Grid
This ambitious plan aims to transfer solar power produced in one region to meet the electricity demands of others, making it a cross-border power grid initiative.
KUSUM Scheme and Solar Charkha Mission
The KUSUM scheme is designed to replace diesel usage in the agricultural sector with solar energy, with a target of solarising 2.8 million irrigation pumps. The Solar Charkha Mission, an enterprise-driven initiative, plans for ‘Solar Charkha Clusters’ with 200 to 2042 beneficiaries. Powered by Solar power, these charkhas aim to create sustainable employment for artisans while maintaining a clean environment.
750 MW Solar Project in Madhya Pradesh
A significant achievement in renewable energy has been the inauguration of a 750-megawatt (MW) solar project in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh.
International Solar Alliance
Jointly launched by India and France in November 2015 during COP-21 in Paris, the International Solar Alliance is a treaty-based international intergovernmental organisation. Conceived as a coalition of solar-resource-rich countries, it aims to address their particular energy needs.
ISA’s Goals
The aim of ISA is to lower the cost of technology and finance, thereby encouraging the deployment of over 1,000 GW of solar energy and mobilizing more than USD 1,000 billion into solar power by 2030 in member nations. Solar energy, being a reliable source of affordable energy, could play a crucial role in achieving universal energy access targets (SDG 7).
ISA Headquarters and Membership
ISA’s headquarters are located in Gurugram, Haryana, India. As of June 2020, 86 countries have signed the ISA Framework Agreement, with 68 having also deposited instruments of ratification.
