Government Initiatives for clean Energy in India
India is one of the world's fastest-growing economies, but it also faces the dual challenge of meeting its energy demands while ensuring environmental sustainability. To meet the energy demands, the Indian government has recognized the importance of transitioning to clean energy to address climate change, reduce pollution, and ensure energy security. Over the years, several clean energy initiatives in India have been launched to promote renewable energy, enhance energy efficiency, and reduce the carbon footprint. This article delves into the various government schemes for renewable energy aimed at fostering clean energy in India.
1. National Solar Mission
Launched in 2010, the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM) aims to establish India as a global leader in solar energy. The mission's primary objective is to achieve 100 GW of solar power capacity, which includes 40 GW from rooftop solar and 60 GW from large and medium-scale grid-connected solar power projects. The mission has been instrumental in reducing the cost of solar power and increasing its adoption across the country. It is one of the renewable energy policies in India at the forefront.
2. National Wind Energy Mission
India has significant potential for wind energy, and the National Wind Energy Mission was launched to harness this potential. The mission aims to achieve 60 GW of wind power capacity. The government has introduced various policies and incentives, such as accelerated depreciation, generation-based incentives, and feed-in tariffs, to promote wind energy projects.
3. Green Hydrogen Mission
The Green Hydrogen Mission is one of the recent clean energy initiatives in India aimed at promoting the production and use of green hydrogen, which is produced using renewable energy sources. The mission's goal is to reduce the carbon intensity of the economy, decrease dependence on fossil fuel imports, and position India as a leader in green hydrogen technology. The government has allocated Rs. 19,700 crore for this mission, with a target of producing 5 million metric tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030.
4. National Biofuel Policy
The National Policy on Biofuels was first introduced in 2009 and later revised in 2018. The policy aims to promote the use of biofuels, such as ethanol and biodiesel, to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions. The policy sets a target of achieving 20% ethanol blending in petrol and 5% biodiesel blending in diesel by 2030. Various incentives and subsidies are provided to encourage the production and use of biofuels.
5. UJALA Scheme
The Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All (UJALA) scheme, launched in 2015, aims to promote energy efficiency by distributing LED bulbs at subsidized rates. The scheme has been highly successful, with over 360 million LED bulbs distributed, resulting in significant energy savings and reduction in carbon emissions. The UJALA scheme has also helped in reducing the peak load demand and lowering electricity bills for consumers.
6. National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP)
The National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) 2020 was launched to promote electric vehicles (EVs) in India. The plan aims to achieve national fuel security by promoting hybrid and electric vehicles, thereby reducing the dependence on fossil fuels. The government has introduced various incentives, such as subsidies, tax benefits, and charging infrastructure development, to encourage the adoption of EVs. The Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme is a key component of NEMMP. It is an important step in India’s green energy transition.
7. Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC)
The Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC), launched by the Ministry of Power in 2007, sets minimum energy performance standards for commercial buildings. The code aims to reduce energy consumption in buildings by promoting energy-efficient design and construction practices. The updated version of ECBC, introduced in 2017, includes provisions for integrating renewable energy sources and passive design strategies.
8. National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE)
The National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE) is one of the eight missions under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC). Launched in 2010, NMEEE aims to strengthen the market for energy efficiency by creating a conducive regulatory and policy framework. The mission includes initiatives such as the Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) scheme, which sets energy efficiency targets for energy-intensive industries, and the Market Transformation for Energy Efficiency (MTEE) program, which promotes energy-efficient appliances.
9. Viability Gap Funding for Battery Energy Storage Systems
To support the development of battery energy storage systems, the government has introduced a Viability Gap Funding (VGF) scheme. The scheme aims to provide financial support for the development of 4,000 MWh of battery energy storage capacity. This initiative is crucial for integrating renewable energy sources into the grid and ensuring a stable and reliable power supply for sustainable energy development in India.
10. Green Credit Programme
The Green Credit Programme, notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, aims to encourage behavioral change and promote sustainable practices. The program provides incentives for activities such as afforestation, waste management, and energy conservation. It also aims to create a market for green credits, which can be traded to meet environmental compliance requirements.
11. GOBARdhan Scheme
The Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan (GOBARdhan) scheme aims to promote the conversion of organic waste into biogas and organic manure. The scheme focuses on establishing 500 new waste-to-wealth plants with a total investment of Rs. 10,000 crore. It aims to improve sanitation in rural areas, generate additional income for farmers, and promote the use of organic fertilizers.
12. Promotion of Natural Farming
The government has launched various initiatives to promote natural farming practices, which are environmentally sustainable and reduce the dependence on chemical fertilizers. One such initiative is the establishment of 10,000 Bhartiya Prakritik Kheti Bio-Input Resource Centres, which aim to create a national-level distributed network for the production of bio-fertilizers and bio-pesticides. The goal is to facilitate one crore farmers to adopt natural farming over the next three years.
13. MISHTI Scheme
The Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI) scheme aims to promote mangrove plantation along the coastline and on salt pan lands. The scheme focuses on enhancing biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and eco-tourism opportunities while providing income generation for local communities. The initiative is implemented through convergence between various government programs, such as MGNREGS and CAMPA Fund.
14. Amrit Dharohar Scheme
The Amrit Dharohar scheme aims to encourage the optimal use of wetlands to enhance biodiversity, carbon stock, and eco-tourism opportunities. The scheme focuses on the conservation and sustainable management of wetlands, which play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and supporting local livelihoods.
Conclusion
India's commitment to clean energy is evident through its numerous initiatives and renewable energy policies in India aimed at promoting renewable energy, enhancing energy efficiency, and reducing carbon emissions. These efforts are crucial for achieving sustainable energy development in India and addressing the challenges posed by climate change. The government's proactive approach and continued investment in clean energy will play a significant role in shaping a greener and more sustainable future for India.
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