Subject: Environment & Ecology

India's solar energy revolution represents a paradigm shift in the energy sector, with 105.65 GW of cumulative solar power capacity achieved by March 2025, marking significant progress in sustainable energy transition.

Benefits of Solar Energy over Conventional Sources

Environmental Benefits:

• Zero Carbon Emissions: Solar energy generation produces no greenhouse gases during operation, unlike coal-based thermal power plants.
• Resource Conservation: Reduces dependency on finite fossil fuels and preserves natural resources for future generations.
• Minimal Water Usage: Solar PV systems require negligible water compared to thermal power plants for cooling purposes.

Economic Benefits:

• Cost-Effective: Declining solar panel costs and improved efficiency make it increasingly competitive with conventional power.
• Energy Security: Reduces dependency on imported fossil fuels, strengthening India's energy independence.
• Job Creation: Creates employment opportunities in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance sectors.

Operational Benefits:

• Low Maintenance: Solar panels require minimal maintenance compared to conventional power plants.
• Decentralized Generation: Enables power generation closer to consumption points, reducing transmission losses.
• Peak Load Management: Solar generation coincides with peak demand during daytime hours.

Government Initiatives

Policy Framework:

• National Electricity Plan (NEP) 2023: Targets 311 GW of solar capacity by 2031-32.
• Renewable Energy Target: Aims to achieve 500 GW of renewable energy transmission by 2030.

Financial Support:

• PM-KUSUM Scheme:
  • Provides 30% central subsidy and 30% state subsidy to farmers.
  • Enhanced 50% central subsidy for Rajasthan and northeastern states.
  • PBI of ₹6.6 lakh per MW for Discoms.

Implementation Progress:

• Capacity Addition: Added 23.8 GW new solar capacity in FY 2025.
• Diverse Implementation:
  • 16.9 GW from utility-scale projects.
  • 5.1 GW from rooftop solar.
  • 1.8 GW from off-grid installations.

India's commitment to solar energy transition through robust policy support and implementation mechanisms demonstrates a sustainable path forward, aligned with SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). The success of programs like PM-KUSUM and achievement of 105.65 GW solar capacity showcases India's leadership in renewable energy adoption.