Q. Do you think India will meet 50 percent of its energy needs from renewable energy by 2030 ? Justify your answer. How will the shift of subsidies from fossil fuels to renewables help achieve the above objective ? Explain.
Question from UPSC Mains 2022 GS3 Paper
Model Answer:
India’s Renewable Energy Goal: 50% by 2030 and the Role of Subsidy Shift
India’s ambitious target of meeting 50% of its energy needs from renewable sources by 2030 is challenging but potentially achievable. The country has made significant strides in renewable energy adoption, with installed capacity growing from 35 GW in 2014 to over 150 GW in 2023.
Factors supporting the 2030 goal:
• Rapidly declining costs of solar and wind technologies
• Strong government support through policies like National Solar Mission
• Increasing private sector investment (e.g., Adani Green, ReNew Power)
• Growing public awareness and demand for clean energy
However, challenges remain:
• Intermittency issues of renewables
• Grid integration and storage infrastructure needs
• Land acquisition problems for large-scale projects
• Dependence on imported components (e.g., solar panels)
Shifting subsidies from fossil fuels to renewables can significantly aid in reaching this objective:
1. Leveling the playing field: Reducing fossil fuel subsidies (e.g., coal transport subsidies) while increasing support for renewables will make clean energy more competitive.
2. Accelerating investment: Redirected subsidies can boost R&D and manufacturing in the renewable sector, potentially creating a domestic supply chain.
3. Improving affordability: Subsidies can lower the cost of renewable energy for consumers, driving adoption.
4. Supporting grid infrastructure: Funds can be allocated to improve transmission and storage capabilities, addressing intermittency issues.
5. Job creation: Subsidy-driven growth in the renewable sector can generate employment opportunities (e.g., solar panel installation).
Challenges in implementing the subsidy shift include:
• Resistance from fossil fuel industries
• Short-term economic impacts on certain sectors
• Need for careful policy design to ensure equitable transition
Conclusion: Subsidy redistribution, coupled with strong policies and technological advancements, can significantly propel India towards its ambitious 2030 renewable energy goal.