Climate change poses an existential threat with the potential to alter the course of human history for the worse. Traditional energy sources, specifically fossil fuels, stand as the primary culprits behind climate change, responsible for over 75% of global greenhouse gas emissions and approximately 90% of carbon dioxide emissions.

To secure a better future, India must embrace green energy as the key solution to achieve its net-zero emission target by 2070. In this pursuit, India should set an example by pioneering a novel model of economic development that steers clear of carbon-intensive approaches, serving as a blueprint for other developing economies looking to transition to clean energy.

What Is Green Energy?

 Green energy, also known as clean, sustainable, or renewable energy, derives from sources that are replenishable and environmentally friendly. It doesn't release harmful greenhouse gases, minimizing its impact on the environment. Key green energy sources encompass solar power, wind energy, geothermal energy, biogas, low-impact hydroelectricity, and select biomass sources.

India's Initiatives for Green Energy Transition India, ranking as the world's third-largest energy consumer, has witnessed a doubling of energy use since 2000, with 80% of this demand met by coal, oil, and solid biomass.

Efforts Towards Green Energy Transition:

India announced in 2019 its commitment to increase renewable energy capacity to 450 GW by 2030.

The Production Linked Incentive Scheme (PLI) bolsters the manufacturing sector for renewable energy raw materials.

The PM-KUSUM initiative aims to harness 25,750 MW of solar energy by 2022, ensuring financial and water security for farmers.

The solarization of water pumps brings distributed power to consumers' doorsteps.

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy hosts the Akshay Urja Portal and India Renewable Idea Exchange (IRIX) Portal, fostering idea exchange among energy-conscious individuals.

Other Initiatives Shaping India's Energy Transition:

Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana (SAUBHAGYA)

Green Energy Corridor (GEC)

National Smart Grid Mission (NSGM) and Smart Meter National Programme

Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles (FAME)

International Solar Alliance (ISA)

Challenges in India's Energy Sector

Energy Poverty and Inequality: Widespread disparities in energy access persist, with millions of households still relying on non-clean sources for lighting, particularly in rural areas.

Import Dependence and Supply Chain Vulnerability: India faces challenges due to its reliance on imported oil and foreign countries for solar modules, with geopolitical tensions complicating supply chain dynamics.

Climate Change-Induced Energy Crisis: Climate change exacerbates existing energy challenges, affecting energy infrastructure and fuel supply.

Women's Health at Risk: The use of non-clean energy sources places women at risk of health issues due to household responsibilities and exposure to harmful resources.

Coal Demand-Supply Gap: The demand-supply gap for coal is widening due to factors like unresolved contractual issues and rising prices.

Increasing Energy Demand and Costs: Rising urbanization and industrialization in India have led to growing energy demand, coupled with increasing global petroleum costs.

The Way Forward

Empowering Women in the Energy Sector: Encouraging women's participation and leadership in the energy sector can expedite the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Diversifying Green Supply Chains: Expanding clean energy supply chains to a wider range of countries and managing the shift in revenues and employment is crucial.

Incentivizing Low-Cost Energy Solutions: Encouraging innovations at the university level and promoting research and innovation in the clean energy sector can utilize India's demographic dividend.

Focusing on Green Transport: Prioritizing public transport, emission norms, biofuels, and electric vehicles is essential.

Multisectoral Approach to Energy Transition: Addressing energy resilience on various fronts, urban development, industrial growth, and supply chain management can promote self-sufficiency and global competitiveness in the green energy sector.

Embracing Circular Economy Solutions: Incorporating circular economy principles with green energy will be a central feature of India's future economy.