Give an account of the current status and the targets to be achieved pertaining to renewable energy sources in the country. Discuss in brief the importance of National Programme on Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs).

Introduction

India has emerged as a global leader in renewable energy, ranking 4th in wind power, 5th in solar power, and 4th in overall renewable energy capacity as of 2023 (IRENA Report). With ambitious targets under the Paris Agreement and the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), the country is making significant strides toward a sustainable energy future. Simultaneously, initiatives like the National Programme on Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) are playing a pivotal role in energy efficiency and demand-side management.

Key Dimensions of Renewable Energy in India

Current Status of Renewable Energy in India

• Installed Capacity:

  • Total renewable energy capacity: 125 GW (as of 2023).
  • Breakdown:
    • Solar: 71 GW
    • Wind: 44 GW
    • Biomass: 10 GW
    • Small Hydro: 5 GW

• Global Leadership:

  • India is among the top 5 countries globally in renewable energy capacity.
  • The International Solar Alliance (ISA), spearheaded by India, promotes solar energy adoption worldwide.

• Energy Mix:

  • Renewables contribute 42% to the total installed power capacity, nearing the 2030 target of 50%.

• Policy Support:

  • Initiatives like the PM-KUSUM Scheme, National Solar Mission, and Green Energy Corridor have accelerated renewable energy adoption.

• Private Sector Participation:

  • Companies like Adani Green Energy and ReNew Power are driving large-scale renewable projects.

Targets to be Achieved

• 2030 Renewable Energy Target:

  • Achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity.
  • Ensure 50% of energy requirements are met through renewables.

• Solar Energy:

  • Expand capacity to 280 GW by 2030.
  • Focus on rooftop solar and floating solar projects.

• Wind Energy:

  • Target 140 GW by 2030, with offshore wind projects gaining momentum.

• Hydrogen Mission:

  • Develop 5 MMT (Million Metric Tons) of green hydrogen annually by 2030.

• Energy Storage:

  • Establish 50 GWh of battery storage capacity to support grid stability.

• Net Zero Commitment:

  • Achieve net-zero emissions by 2070, as pledged at COP26.

Importance of National Programme on Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)

• Energy Efficiency:

  • The programme, implemented by Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), has distributed over 370 million LED bulbs under the UJALA scheme, reducing energy consumption significantly.

• Cost Savings:

  • LED adoption has resulted in annual savings of 47 billion kWh of electricity and reduced electricity bills for households.

• Environmental Impact:

  • Prevented the emission of 38 million tonnes of CO₂ annually, contributing to India’s climate goals.

• Economic Benefits:

  • Boosted domestic manufacturing of LED bulbs under the Make in India initiative.
  • Created employment opportunities in the energy efficiency sector.

• Global Recognition:

  • The programme is considered one of the world’s largest energy efficiency initiatives, showcasing India’s leadership in sustainable development.

Way Forward

• Policy Strengthening:

  • Enhance incentives for renewable energy projects, especially in offshore wind and green hydrogen.
  • Strengthen the Renewable Energy Purchase Obligation (RPO) framework.

• Technology and Innovation:

  • Invest in advanced energy storage solutions and smart grid technologies.
  • Promote research in next-generation solar cells and wind turbines.

• Public Awareness:

  • Expand awareness campaigns for rooftop solar and energy-efficient appliances.

• Global Collaboration:

  • Leverage platforms like the ISA and COP28 to attract international investments and technology transfer.

Conclusion

India’s renewable energy journey is a testament to its commitment to sustainable development and climate action. With ambitious targets like 500 GW by 2030 and innovative programmes like the LED initiative, the country is on track to become a global clean energy hub. Achieving these goals will not only ensure energy security but also align with SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and India’s vision of a green economy.