Access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy is the sine qua non to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Comment on the progress made in India in this regard.

Introduction

Access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy is a critical enabler for achieving multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 1 (No Poverty). India, as the third-largest energy consumer globally, has made significant strides in expanding energy access while addressing sustainability concerns. However, challenges remain in ensuring inclusivity and long-term reliability.

Key Dimensions of Energy Access in India

Progress Made in India

1. Affordable Energy

• Ujjwala Yojana: Over 9.6 crore LPG connections provided to rural households, reducing dependence on traditional biomass fuels.
• Subsidies: Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for LPG and electricity subsidies has improved affordability for low-income households.
• Tariff Reforms: Efforts to rationalize electricity tariffs and cross-subsidies have aimed to make energy affordable for all.

2. Reliable Energy

• Saubhagya Scheme: Achieved near-universal household electrification by connecting 28.6 million households since 2017.
• Grid Modernization: Investments in smart grids and transmission infrastructure have reduced power outages and improved reliability.
• Power Surplus: India has transitioned from a power-deficit to a power-surplus nation, with an installed capacity of over 416 GW (as of 2023).

3. Sustainable Energy

• Renewable Energy Expansion: India ranks 4th globally in renewable energy capacity, with 125 GW of installed renewable capacity (solar, wind, hydro, and biomass).
• National Solar Mission: Solar capacity has grown from 2.6 GW in 2014 to over 70 GW in 2023, contributing to SDG 13.
• Energy Transition Goals: India has committed to achieving 50% of its energy capacity from non-fossil fuels by 2030 under its updated NDCs.

4. Modern Energy

• Energy Efficiency: Initiatives like Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) and Ujala Scheme (distribution of over 36 crore LED bulbs) have reduced energy intensity and modernized consumption patterns.
• Electric Mobility: The FAME II scheme promotes electric vehicles, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and modernizing transport energy.
• Smart Cities Mission: Integration of smart energy solutions in urban areas has enhanced energy efficiency and modernity.

Challenges and Gaps

• Affordability: Rising global energy prices and subsidy rationalization pose challenges for low-income households.
• Reliability: Rural and remote areas still face intermittent power supply despite electrification.
• Sustainability: Dependence on coal (over 50% of energy mix) continues to hinder decarbonization efforts.
• Modern Energy Access: Limited penetration of advanced technologies like hydrogen energy and smart grids in rural areas.

Way Forward

• Decentralized Renewable Energy: Promote off-grid solar and wind solutions for remote areas.
• Energy Storage: Invest in battery storage technologies to address intermittency in renewable energy.
• Policy Reforms: Strengthen regulatory frameworks for energy pricing and grid management.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Leverage private sector investments in clean energy and infrastructure development.
• Behavioral Change: Encourage energy conservation through awareness campaigns and incentives.

Conclusion

India has made commendable progress in expanding energy access, aligning with SDG 7 and other related goals. However, achieving universal, inclusive, and sustainable energy access requires addressing affordability, reliability, and sustainability gaps. With its ambitious renewable energy targets and innovative policies, India is well-positioned to lead the global energy transition while ensuring socio-economic development.