Q. Explain briefly the ecological and economic benefits of solar energy generation in India with suitable examples.

Model Answer:

Solar Energy Generation in India: Ecological and Economic Benefits

India, with 300 sunny days annually and 5,000 trillion kWh solar potential, is rapidly embracing solar energy to meet its developmental and environmental goals.

Ecological Benefits:
Solar energy significantly reduces India’s carbon footprint while preserving natural resources. Major ecological advantages include:

• Carbon emission reduction – Bhadla Solar Park, Rajasthan (world’s largest) prevents 4 million tons of CO2 emissions annually, equivalent to planting 2 million trees.

• Water conservation – Unlike thermal plants consuming 3.5 billion cubic meters annually, solar requires minimal water, crucial for drought-prone regions like Marathwada.

• Air quality improvement – Replacing coal plants reduces PM2.5 and SO2 emissions, addressing urban pollution (Delhi’s AQI crisis).

• Land optimization – Floating solar projects (Kayamkulam, Kerala) and canal-top installations (Gujarat’s Vadodara canal) preserve agricultural land.

Economic Benefits:
The solar sector drives economic growth through multiple channels. It has generated 1.1 lakh jobs (ICEA report, 2022) while reducing energy import dependence, saving $4.2 billion in fossil fuel imports. Rural prosperity increases through PM-KUSUM scheme enabling farmers to earn ₹60,000-1 lakh annually from land leasing. Domestic manufacturing received boost through PLI scheme (Adani-Mundra facility, Reliance-Jamnagar plant). Most importantly, solar tariffs have plummeted to ₹2.14/kWh (Gujarat auction, 2020), making it cheaper than coal-based power.

Conclusion:
Solar energy remains pivotal for India’s 500GW renewable target and net-zero commitment by 2070.