Renewable energy is that form of energy which is replenished by nature on a timely basis. Such kind of energy comes from the sources such as sunlight, wind, rain, tide, etc. Only one-sixth of the total energy consumption globally comes from renewable energy. The continuous use of energy from fossil fuel is becoming a concern as the level of fossil fuel is rapidly diminishing. Of the renewable sources used for the production of energy about 16% comes from traditional sources which includes biomass, rest includes the newer form like hydroelectricity, wind, solar, etc.
Read in details the Need for Renewable Energy.
Changing climatic conditions coupled with the rising crude oil prices, increasing commercialization, etc. are major concerns for the global economy now. In order to grow sustainably, it is very important that the use of renewable energy resources is maximized while minimizing the use of non renewable energy. If proper steps are not taken now, then going by the rate of use of non renewable sources, it is expected that in 1.5-2 decades the energy sources from fossil fuel will become extinct. It is projected that if solar energy is properly put to use, it can produce most of the world’s electricity within 50 years. Also the use of solar energy will drastically reduce the emission of harmful gases to the environment.
Talking of India, we find that the renewable sector is still underdeveloped despite being the fact that India was the first country to set up the ministry for non-conventional energy resources. In recent times however, India has been found working collectively on the front of renewable energy resources and has set aggressive targets for itself.
One of the major challenges faced by the economy to develop the renewable source of energy is lack of infrastructure. Due to improper infrastructure, the good policy of renewable energy source gets de-railed time and again. In a recent report it was mentioned that despite several challenges the country has seen massive growth in terms of renewable energy production. Over the last decade a growth of over 1250% was seen especially in case of wind energy. Also in 2012, India enjoyed being placed at the fourth position globally for new wind power projects. India is also working on the front of solar energy and has certain ambitious projects. The state of Gujarat has already implemented several projects related to solar energy.
The Government is currently working on the policies of energy security along with the production of energy using renewable resources. It is mainly focusing on improving its domestic capacity and production so that the huge import of energy could be minimized. The step will definitely help government curb the rising current account deficit and fiscal deficit as energy forms a major share in the total import of the country.
It is seen that after the opening of the economy in 1990, the industrial productivity has undoubtedly tripled but the emissions too has gone up by 70%. For the country, both the power generation along with carbon emission are increasing at a rapid pace. Thus it is now important to keep a check on the carbon emission which has been rising at 8% between 2000 and 2010.
Read about Advantages of Green Clean Renewable Energy.
The policies need to be formed at the central and state level to invite the private players develop infrastructure and set up power plants. Land should be made available to the private players and a single window clearance mechanism should be implemented when the project is related to the power generation using renewable energy resources. It is important that the government help the private players get the best advisory and consultancy free of cost in lieu of subsidy. This will help in proper execution of the project.
Conclusion
Thus in a nutshell we can say, the government needs to check on the bureaucracy and approvals when it comes to power project. If proper relaxation is made and private players are encouraged, India can definitely generate its own power for the entire nation unlike being dependent on foreign nations to meet its energy requirement.
Available on GWI Free Guide on Solar Energy in India.