Question.
Examine the financial and technical viability of solar energy projects in India. Also, discuss the Government Schemes launched to promote solar energy in the country.
( UPPSC, UP PCS Mains General Studies-III/GS-3 2022)
Answer.
Solar energy projects in India have gained immense popularity in recent years due to financial and technical viability, high solar irradiance, favorable climate conditions, and government incentive.
The government of India has set a target of achieving 175 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2022 of which 100 GW will be from solar energy, And set a target of 500 GW of renewable energy sources by 2030; out of it, at least 60 % of renewable energy will come from solar energy.
Financial Viability;
The financial viability of solar energy projects in India is quite good due to the declining costs of solar photovoltaic ( PV) systems, technological advancement, and government support.
Solar energy projects have long-term benefits as the cost of maintenance is lower compared to conventional power plants. However, the initial cost of setting up solar panels and batteries is quite high.
Solar energy plays an important role in the rural economy and meeting the requirement of remote areas, it also plays an important role in reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
Technical viability;
India has favorable climatic conditions for solar power and can be deployed almost everywhere in the country.
There are several types of solar panels available in the market today that can be used based on the requirement and location.
For example, rooftop solar systems are becoming popular in residential areas while large-scale power plants are popular to supply power to the grid.
Government Scheme;
The Indian government has launched many schemes to promote the use of solar energy in India. Some important government schemes are listed below-
Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission- This scheme was launched in 2010 with the aim to achieve 100 GW of solar power by 2022. The mission has various components like grid-connected solar power, off-grid solar applications, and solar thermal power.
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suruksha Evam Uthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM); This scheme was launched in 2019 with the aim of providing them with solar pumps and grid-connected solar power plants. This mission encourages the installation of solar projects on barren lands and rooftops.
Atal Jyoti Yojana (AJAY); AJYA scheme was launched in 2018 with the aim to provide solar lighting to rural areas that are not connected to the grid.
Solar Charkha Mission; This mission was launched in 2018 with the aim to provide employment to rural people for setting up solar charkhas ( spinning wheels).
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