The global report on the status of renewable energy, coined the Renewables 2022 Global Status Report (GSR 2022), was recently released by REN21, or the Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century. This organization consists of a collective of renewable energy stakeholders – scientists, governments (including India’s), non-governmental organizations, and industry members – who unite to gather data on renewable energy installations, markets, investments, and policies worldwide.
About Renewables 2022 Global Status Report (GSR 2022)
The GSR 2022 chronicles developments in the renewable energy sector, spotlighting the potential of renewable-based economies and societies. Emphasizing the perks of localized energy generation and value chains, the report suggests that countries with high renewable energy use tend to enjoy more diversified and inclusive energy governance, along with enhanced energy independence and security.
Key Highlights of the Report: Global Overview
The report warns of sluggish progress in the clean energy transition, threatening our ability to meet critical climate goals this decade. Despite numerous governments committing to net zero greenhouse gas emissions in 2021, most have reverted to exploiting new fossil fuel sources and burning more coal, oil, and natural gas amid energy crises. The GSR 2022 debuts a world map of renewable energy shares by country, showing progress in leading nations. As of COP26 in November 2021, 135 countries vow to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, yet only 84 have economy-wide renewable energy targets, and a mere 36 aim for 100% renewables.
India’s Performance in Renewable Energy
In terms of renewable energy installations in 2021, India ranked third, following China and Russia. The country added 843 MW of hydropower capacity, bringing the total to 45.3 GW. India also emerged as the second largest market in Asia and third globally for new solar PV capacity, with a 13 GW addition in 2021. Overall installations stood at 60.4 GW, surpassing Germany (59.2 GW). Additionally, India ranked third globally for total installed wind power capacity at 40.1 GW.
India’s Initiatives to Promote Renewable Energy
Several initiatives underscore India’s commitment to boosting renewable energy use. The National Solar Mission (NSM), which targets 100 GW solar power, drives one of the world’s largest renewable energy expansion programs. The Wind Energy Revolution harnesses India’s thriving wind energy sector to promote clean energy manufacturing and rural economic development. Other initiatives include the National Biofuels Policy, SATAT, International Solar Alliance (ISA), Small Hydro Power (SHP), National Hydrogen Energy Mission (NHEM) and Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme.
Challenges in India’s Transition to Renewable Energy
The transition towards renewable energy in India faces numerous obstacles. Financially struggling power distribution companies (discoms), weather-dependent energy generation variability, insufficient transmission grid infrastructure, reliance on foreign technology, environmental concerns, shortage of skilled personnel, and high installation costs all pose significant challenges.
The Way Forward
Addressing these challenges requires collaboration on a global scale, innovative approaches like distributed renewable energy (DRE), emphasis on responsible energy use, and effective climate financing. By adhering to principles of labor, lands, and human rights protection, strengthening ecological systems, committing to participatory governance, recognizing community resiliency and workforce inclusivity, and tapping into international support, India can surmount the hurdles in its transition towards renewable energy.
Previous Year Question in UPSC Civil Services Examination
This report is relevant to the UPSC Civil Services Examination, with a previous year question referencing the term ‘Domestic Content Requirement’ in relation to developing solar power production in India. The National Solar Mission, initiated in 2010, aimed to deploy solar power across the country and stimulate development throughout the entire value chain. To boost domestic manufacturing, a ‘Domestic Content Requirement’ provision was introduced, rewarding solar energy producers who used locally produced cells with subsidies. However, India lost a case to the US at WTO over this requirement, as it was found to be inconsistent with international norms.
