Q. Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to the conventional energy. What are the initiatives offered by our Government for this purpose?
Ans: Harnessing solar energy offers a clean, sustainable alternative to conventional sources like coal, oil, and natural gas. India, with its abundant sunshine, has immense potential to lead in solar power generation.
Benefits of Solar Energy over Conventional Energy
Solar energy provides multiple advantages that align with environmental, economic, and social goals:
- Environmentally Clean
- Solar power is pollution-free, emitting no greenhouse gases or toxic byproducts.
- Reduces dependence on fossil fuels, mitigating climate change and air pollution.
- Renewable and Inexhaustible
- Unlike coal or oil, sunlight is abundant and perpetual, especially in tropical regions like India.
- Energy Security
- Reduces reliance on imported fuels, enhancing national energy independence and saving foreign exchange.
- Low Operating Costs
- After installation, solar systems require minimal maintenance and have long lifespans.
- Decentralized Access
- Enables off-grid electrification in remote areas, improving rural development and reducing transmission losses.
- Economic Growth
- Boosts employment in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance.
- Encourages domestic innovation and entrepreneurship.
Government Initiatives for Solar Energy in India
India has launched several schemes to promote solar energy adoption and infrastructure:
- National Solar Mission
- Aims to achieve 100 GW solar capacity, including 40 GW rooftop solar.
- PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana
- Provides subsidized rooftop solar systems to households, targeting 10 million homes by 2026.
- PM-KUSUM Scheme
- Promotes solar pumps and decentralized solar plants for farmers, reducing diesel dependence.
- Solar Park Scheme
- Supports development of large-scale solar parks with integrated infrastructure.
- Rooftop Solar Programme Phase II
- Offers financial incentives to DISCOMs and subsidies for residential installations.
- Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme
- Encourages domestic manufacturing of high-efficiency solar PV modules.
- Green Energy Corridors
- Develops transmission infrastructure to evacuate solar power efficiently.
- Atal Jyoti Yojana (AJAY)
- Installs solar street lights in rural and semi-urban areas.
Conclusion: Solar energy is a cornerstone of India’s transition to clean and inclusive development. With proactive government support and rising public awareness, it holds the promise of a greener, self-reliant future. Let me know if you’d like this turned into a revision sheet or visual summary.