India's Renewables Sector: Time for a Fundamental Reset
India’s renewables sector needs a fundamental reset
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
Context
India's Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) aims for 60% of installed power capacity to be from non-fossil sources by 2035. However, despite significant renewable capacity, the actual power generation from these sources remains low, raising questions about their reliability.
What The Author Says
The author argues that India's renewable energy sector requires a fundamental reset to achieve reliability and resilience in power supply. The current focus on increasing capacity is insufficient without addressing systemic issues in the grid, market structure, and distribution companies.
Key Arguments
📗 Facts
- India's updated NDC aims for 60% of installed power capacity to be non-fossil-fuel-based by 2035.
- Non-fossil sources account for nearly half of India's installed capacity but contribute only about a quarter of actual power generation.
- India's distribution companies have accumulated losses of around ₹1 lakh crore (approximately $12 billion).
📕 Opinions
- The current focus on increasing renewable capacity does not ensure reliable power supply.
- Financial stress in distribution companies continues to undermine the effectiveness of India's energy transition.
Counterpoints
Renewable energy technology is rapidly evolving.
Advancements in energy storage and grid management may soon address current reliability issues, making the transition smoother than anticipated.
Government policies may provide necessary support.
Continued government incentives and investments could enhance the viability of renewable energy sources, potentially mitigating financial issues in distribution.
Market dynamics could shift naturally.
As renewable energy becomes more prevalent, market forces may drive necessary changes in pricing and infrastructure without the need for drastic reforms.
Bias Assessment
The author emphasizes the need for systemic changes in India's energy sector, potentially overlooking successful localized initiatives.
Why This Matters
The geopolitical landscape is shifting, highlighting vulnerabilities in global energy flows and emphasizing the need for India to enhance its energy security. The transition to renewable energy is critical for sustainable development amid rising energy demands.
🤔 Think About
- •How can India balance rapid renewable expansion with the need for reliability?
- •What role should government play in restructuring electricity markets?
- •Could technological advancements in energy storage solve current grid issues?
- •How might consumer behavior influence the effectiveness of renewable energy policies?
Opens original article on Hindustan Times
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