Q. Explain the purpose of the Green Grid Initiative launched at World Leaders Summit of the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in November, 2021. When was this idea first floated in the International Solar Alliance (ISA) ?

Model Answer: 

The Green Grids Initiative—One Sun One World One Grid (GGI-OSOWOG), launched jointly by India and the UK at COP26, aims to accelerate global renewable energy transitions.

1. Origin of the Idea in the ISA

• Initial Proposal: The idea was first floated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the First Assembly of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in October 2018.
• Core Philosophy: It is rooted in the concept that “The Sun Never Sets,” highlighting that solar energy is constantly available at some geographical location globally.

2. Purpose of the Green Grid Initiative

• Transnational Interconnection: Build a global power grid seamlessly transferring renewable energy across borders (connecting Middle-East, South Asia, and Southeast Asia).
• Overcoming Intermittency: Ensure reliable 24/7 green power supply by leveraging global time-zone differences.
• Reducing Storage Costs: Minimize reliance on expensive battery storage infrastructure by directly transmitting surplus solar electricity globally.
• Rapid Decarbonization: Phase out fossil fuels by integrating large-scale solar and wind projects to meet net-zero targets (Paris Agreement NDCs).
• Promoting Energy Equity: Mobilize global investments and technical assistance to build resilient renewable infrastructure in energy-deficient regions (e.g., Africa).

GGI-OSOWOG represents a paradigm shift in climate diplomacy, positioning cross-border solar connectivity as a transformative tool for global energy security and sustainable development.