Subject: Environment & Ecology

India's pursuit of sustainable energy transformation through the Green Energy Corridor (GEC) represents a paradigm shift from conventional energy sources towards renewable alternatives, addressing both environmental concerns and energy security challenges.

Components and Implementation

• Infrastructure Development: The project has achieved significant milestones with the construction of 9,135 circuit kilometers of transmission lines and 21,313 MVA substations commissioned by October 2024, enabling efficient renewable energy integration.

• Grid Integration: Successfully connected 18.72 GW of renewable energy to the national grid, demonstrating the project's effectiveness in managing intermittent renewable power sources.

• Capacity Addition: India has shown remarkable progress with total installed renewable energy capacity reaching 220.10 GW by March 2025, including:

  • 105.65 GW of solar power.
  • 50.04 GW of wind energy.
  • 5.10 GW of small hydropower.

Benefits and Solutions

• Environmental Impact Reduction:

  • Helps in achieving Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.
  • Reduces carbon footprint of power sector through clean energy integration.

• Economic Advantages:

  • Attracted $19.98 billion in Foreign Direct Investment from April 2020 to September 2024.
  • Creates green jobs and supports domestic manufacturing under 'Make in India'.

Challenges and Way Forward

• Technical Challenges:

  • Need for advanced grid management systems.
  • Integration of Smart Grid technologies for better power flow control.

• Financial Requirements:

  • Implementation of Green Bonds and innovative financing mechanisms.
  • Collaboration with international partners through International Solar Alliance (ISA).

India's green energy corridor initiative, aligned with the vision of 'One Sun, One World, One Grid', demonstrates the country's commitment to sustainable energy transition. The successful implementation of GEC, coupled with policy support through National Green Hydrogen Mission and PM-KUSUM scheme, positions India as a global leader in renewable energy integration and climate action.