India’s Clean Energy Transition by 2030

India is on track to increase its clean energy share. By 2029-30, the clean energy sources are expected to account for 64.4 per cent of the total installed capacity. This shift is crucial for meeting the anticipated peak demand of 334.8 GW and an energy requirement of 2279.7 billion units. The National Electricity Plan outlines the necessary steps for this transformation.

Installed Capacity Overview

India’s total installed capacity is projected to reach 777,144 MW by 2029-30. This includes 276,507 MW from fossil fuels and 500,637 MW from non-fossil sources. The breakdown of non-fossil sources includes solar, wind, hydro, and nuclear energy. The country is also investing in battery energy storage, aiming for a capacity of 41,650 MW.

Rooftop Solar Initiatives

As of November 20, 2024, India has installed 616,019 rooftop solar systems under the PM-Surya Ghar – Muft Bijli Yojana. This scheme facilitates residential consumers in registering and installing solar systems. Consumers can choose vendors and receive subsidies directly into their bank accounts after system inspections.

Solar Pumps under PM-KUSUM

The PM-KUSUM scheme has allocated 1,302,327 solar pumps across states. More than 970,000 solar pumps have received Letters of Awards. By October 31, 2024, 540,499 of these pumps have been installed. This initiative supports farmers by providing solar-powered irrigation solutions.

Fortified Rice Distribution

India has achieved full coverage of fortified rice distribution by March 2024. This initiative replaced custom-milled rice with fortified rice across government schemes. The programme was implemented in three phases, ensuring nutritional support through the Pradhan Mantra Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana.

Investment in Solar PV Sector

India’s solar photovoltaic (PV) sector has attracted approximately Rs 35,000 crore in investments. The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme has boosted the manufacturing capacity of high-efficiency solar PV modules. This initiative has also created direct employment for around 10,000 individuals.

Solar Rooftop Capacity in Punjab

In Punjab, 200.32 megawatts of grid solar rooftop capacity have been installed from 2022-23 to 2024-25. This marks an increase compared to previous years, indicating a growing trend in solar energy adoption within the state.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Discuss the impact of renewable energy on India’s energy security and economic growth.
2. Critically examine the role of government policies in promoting solar energy in India.
3. Explain the significance of the PM-KUSUM scheme in enhancing agricultural productivity.
4. With suitable examples, discuss how fortified rice can improve public health in India.

Answer Hints:

1. Discuss the impact of renewable energy on India’s energy security and economic growth.

1. Renewable energy reduces dependence on fossil fuels, enhancing energy security.
2. Increased capacity from renewables supports economic growth by creating jobs in manufacturing and installation.
3. Investment in renewable infrastructure drives technological innovation and attracts foreign investment.
4. Renewables help stabilize energy prices and reduce vulnerability to global oil market fluctuations.
5. Transitioning to clean energy contributes to sustainable development and climate change mitigation efforts.

2. Critically examine the role of government policies in promoting solar energy in India.

1. The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme incentivizes domestic manufacturing of solar PV modules.
2. Policies like PM-Surya Ghar provide subsidies and facilitate rooftop solar installations for residential consumers.
3. Government initiatives aim to enhance grid connectivity and storage solutions for solar energy.
4. State-level policies and incentives further promote solar adoption among farmers and industries.
5. Regulatory frameworks have been established to streamline approvals and promote investment in solar projects.

3. Explain the significance of the PM-KUSUM scheme in enhancing agricultural productivity.

1. PM-KUSUM provides solar-powered irrigation, reducing reliance on grid electricity and diesel pumps.
2. Access to solar pumps increases water availability, allowing for multiple cropping cycles and higher yields.
3. The scheme supports financial savings for farmers by lowering energy costs associated with irrigation.
4. Solar irrigation promotes sustainable farming practices and reduces carbon emissions.
5. By enhancing productivity, the scheme contributes to food security and rural economic development.

4. With suitable examples, discuss how fortified rice can improve public health in India.

1. Fortified rice provides essential micronutrients, addressing malnutrition in vulnerable populations.
2. Implementation through the Pradhan Mantra Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana ensures wide distribution to low-income households.
3. Phased implementation targets specific demographics, such as children and pregnant women, enhancing their health outcomes.
4. Replacing custom-milled rice with fortified rice improves overall dietary quality in government schemes.
5. Increased awareness and access to fortified rice can reduce the prevalence of anemia and other deficiencies.