India’s energy landscape needs to address the challenges posed by China’s dominance in green energy materials is essential.
What is green energy?
About- It is the energy that can be produced using a method, and from a source, that causes no harm to the natural environment.
Solar energy- It is typically produced using photovoltaic cells, which capture sunlight and turn it into electricity.
Wind power- The air flow on the earth's surface can be used to push turbines, with stronger winds producing more energy.
Hydropower- It is generated by the Earth's water cycle, including evaporation, rainfall, tides and the force of water running through a dam.
Geothermal energy- It uses thermal energy that has been stored just under the earth’s crust.
Biofuel- They are liquid fuels produced from renewable biological sources, including plants and algae.
Bioenergy- It is produced from organic material, known as biomass, which contains carbon absorbed by plants through photosynthesis.
What are the steps taken by India to promote green energy?
National Green Hydrogen Mission- It focuses on direct and indirect employment, import substitution, and R&D for higher efficiency in renewable energy technologies.
PM KUSUM scheme-It is aimed at ensuring energy security for farmers in India, along with honouring India’s commitment to increase the share of installed capacity of electric power from non-fossil-fuel sources to 40% by 2030 as part of Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs).
Investment- India allows up to 100% Foreign Direct Investment under the automatic route for renewable energy generation and distribution project.
Production Linked Incentive (PLI) - Scheme for high efficiency solar aims to enhance India’s manufacturing capabilities and exports in the solar sector.
Green Energy Corridors- It is established to create intra-state transmission system for renewable energy projects.
International Solar Alliance- It is a joint effort by India and France to mobilize efforts against climate change through deployment of solar energy solutions with an aim of One Sun, One World, One Grid.
Green carbon credits-It is proposed by India to create carbon sinks through people’s participation.
Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana- It was launched in 2024 to equip 1 crore poor to middle-class households with rooftop solar panels in a bit to provide electricity from solar energy.
How can India ensure energy security?
Integrate hydrocarbon PSEs- Hydrocarbon Public Sector Enterprises like ONGC and Indian Oil are venturing into renewable energy sectors, this would prevent redundancy, optimize resource utilization and streamline efforts
Secure critical minerals- Heavy reliance on China for critical technologies poses threat to national security hence India should ensure a stable and secure supply of essential minerals.
Balance clean energy competitiveness- While prioritizing national security is essential, India must also consider the competitiveness of clean energy vis-a-vis fossil fuels.
Competitiveness of clean energy- India should enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities and reduce dependency on imports.
Extend PLI scheme- The Production Linked Incentive scheme needs to be extended to cover more segments of the renewable energy sector.
Protect domestic industries- Implement tariffs and anti-dumping duties to protect domestic industries from unfair competition.
Promote local manufacturers- Encourage public-private partnerships to build a robust local manufacturing ecosystem.
Foster private investment- Mobilize private capital for sustainable energy projects and increase government funding for flagship renewable energy projects demonstrate feasibility and profitability.
Balance green transition-Green transition needs to be balanced with economic growth and stability to ensure a smooth and balanced transition without adversely impacting the economy.
Form Inter-Ministerial Task Force- This should be formed to oversee the implementation of the energy strategy, ensuring coordinated efforts across various government departments and agencies.
Periodic review- Establish periodic review processes involving stakeholders from industry, academia, and civil society to assess progress and make necessary adjustments.
Holisitic approach- Engage the public and private sectors through awareness programs highlighting the benefits and opportunities of the green transition.
