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Government Initiatives on Solar Power in India: A Bright Future for Renewable Energy
With a renewed focus on sustainable energy sources, India has made significant strides in promoting solar power as a key component of its energy portfolio. In this blog, we will delve into the key initiatives taken by the government to boost the solar power sector.
With a renewed focus on sustainable energy sources, India has made significant strides in promoting solar power as a key component of its energy portfolio. In this blog, we will delve into the key initiatives taken by the government to boost the solar power sector.
One of the most significant steps taken by the Indian government is the National Solar Mission, also known as Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM). Launched in 2010, NSM has set ambitious targets to achieve 100 GW of solar power capacity by 2022. This mission not only aims to increase the generation of clean energy but also promotes indigenous manufacturing of solar components, creating job opportunities and boosting the domestic solar industry.
2. Solar Parks and Ultra Mega Solar Power Projects:
To facilitate the development of large-scale solar projects, the government has initiated the establishment of solar parks and ultra mega solar power projects across the country. These solar parks provide the necessary infrastructure and support for solar developers, reducing the risk and cost associated with land acquisition and infrastructure development. They play a crucial role in achieving the NSM targets.
Solar Rooftop Program:
Recognizing the potential of solar rooftops in reducing the burden on the grid and promoting decentralized power generation, the government has introduced various incentives and subsidies for residential, commercial, and industrial consumers. The Solar Rooftop Program encourages the installation of solar panels on rooftops, thus promoting self-sufficiency in power generation and reducing electricity bills.
Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO):
To ensure that a certain percentage of electricity generated comes from renewable sources, the government has implemented the Renewable Purchase Obligation. This policy mandates utilities and power distribution companies to purchase a specified percentage of their power from renewable sources, including solar. This creates a stable market for solar power and encourages investment in the sector.
Make in India Initiative:
To promote domestic manufacturing of solar equipment, the government launched the “Make in India” initiative. This has led to increased production of solar panels, inverters, and other components within the country, reducing dependence on imports and boosting the domestic solar industry.
Green Energy Corridors:
The development of green energy corridors involves building dedicated transmission lines for renewable energy, including solar power. These corridors ensure the efficient evacuation of renewable energy from generation hubs to consumption centers, reducing transmission losses and ensuring a smooth flow of clean energy into the grid.
International Solar Alliance (ISA):
India has played a pivotal role in forming the International Solar Alliance, a coalition of solar-rich countries aiming to collectively work on solar energy solutions. By collaborating with other nations, India is not only promoting solar power on a global scale but also fostering technological advancements and knowledge sharing.
Incentives and Subsidies:
The government offers various incentives, subsidies, and tax benefits to solar power developers and investors. These incentives make solar projects financially viable and attractive, encouraging more investment in the sector.
Net Metering Policies:
Many states in India have implemented net metering policies, allowing consumers with solar installations to feed excess electricity back into the grid and receive credits for it. This encourages consumers to invest in solar and contributes to grid stability.
Research and Development (R&D):
The government is actively promoting R&D in solar technology to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. Research institutions and universities are encouraged to collaborate with industry players to drive innovation in the solar sector.
The government is actively promoting R&D in solar technology to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. Research institutions and universities are encouraged to collaborate with industry players to drive innovation in the solar sector.
Author:
Byjuraj RS
Solar Energy Consultant & CEO
SEnSOL Technologies
28th September 2023