How India Embraced Green Technology and Overcame Coal Dependency ?

“India’s move towards green technology is a strategic decision that will benefit the country in the long run. By investing in renewable energy and reducing its reliance on coal, India is not only creating a cleaner environment but also boosting its economic growth by tapping into new sources of energy.”

- Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India.

India is the world’s third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, and a significant contributor to this is its use of coal. Coal has been the primary source of energy for the country’s power sector, accounting for nearly 70% of India’s electricity generation. The use of coal has contributed significantly to the country’s air pollution problem, which has led to an increase in respiratory diseases and premature deaths.

Overview:

Green technology helps reduce the harmful effects of human activities on the environment. This includes technologies that reduce pollution, cut down on waste, protect natural resources, and promote long-term sustainability. Green technology is important for sustainable development, which means meeting our current needs without harming the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

The Indian government is striving to meet the country’s energy needs while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In 2015, the government set a target of achieving 175 GW of renewable energy by 2022, with 100 GW coming from solar energy. This target was later revised to 450 GW by 2030, with 280 GW from solar energy. The government implemented policies and initiatives such as the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM) that aimed to promote solar energy development and provide incentives to solar power developers. Additionally, the government attracted investments and partnerships with domestic and international companies, including the launch of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in 2015 with France, which now has 121 member countries.

The government has taken several measures to promote renewable energy, such as:

· The UJALA scheme was started to provide households with LED bulbs at reduced rates, resulting in saving a lot of energy.

· The Pradhan Mantri Urja Ganga project was started to create a gas pipeline network in eastern India.

· Encouraging renewable energy projects by offering financial rewards such as subsidies and tax breaks to developers.

· Encouraging electric vehicles and public transport to decrease the use of fossil fuels in transportation, the development of solar parks and wind parks that provide infrastructure and support for renewable energy projects.

India is using more solar power to generate electricity and this change is happening because private companies like Tata Power Solar System, Adani Renewable Energy, etc. are helping by promoting green technology and reducing the country’s reliance on coal. These companies are helping India reach its renewable energy goals by building large solar and wind energy projects and promoting solar power solutions for homes, businesses, and industries. Their involvement is important for reducing the country’s reliance on coal.

The adoption of green technology has been beneficial for the environment, the economy, and the people. The reduction in carbon emissions, cost-effectiveness, job creation, and energy security are some of the significant benefits of green technology in India’s transition to solar energy. The adoption of green technology is not only a step towards a sustainable future but also a step towards the overall development of India.

Future Scope:

India has lots of sunshine with almost 300 sunny days every year, which makes it a perfect place for producing solar energy. The government’s ambitious target to achieve 450 GW by 2030, with 280 GW from solar energy, provides a clear roadmap for the country’s energy transition.

India wants all cars to be electric by 2030, which is great news for renewable energy. As more electric cars are on the road, there will be more demand for renewable energy to charge them, which could encourage more investment in the sector.

Besides solar energy and electric vehicles, more people in India want green infrastructure like eco-friendly buildings, green roofs, and urban forests. As India continues to invest in renewable energy and green technology, it is likely that the country will become a leader in the global transition towards a more sustainable and cleaner energy future.

By
Om Santosh Bhojane
GDSC SIES GST Community Member

P.S: This blog won the Technical Blogging Competition Conducted by Google Developer Student Clubs Team 2022–23