Q. Explain briefly the ecological and economic benefits of solar energy generation in India with suitable examples. (10 Marks, 150 words)

Q. 6 Explain briefly the ecological and economic benefits of solar energy generation in India with suitable examples. (10 Marks, 150 words)

Approach

Begin by introducing India’s solar potential and targets under the Panchamrit commitments. In the body, discuss ecological benefits such as emission reduction, air quality improvement, water conservation, biodiversity protection, and land-use innovations with examples. Then, highlight economic benefits like energy security, affordability, job creation, rural development, and investment opportunities. Conclude by linking solar energy to India’s sustainable growth and climate leadership.

As part of its Panchamrit climate commitments, India aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, with solar playing a leading role. Recently, India surpassed Japan to become the world’s third-largest solar power producer.

Ecological Benefits of Solar Energy Generation in India

Reduction in Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Solar power replaces coal-based electricity, reducing carbon emissions significantly.
- E.g., The expansion of solar energy contributes to India’s ambitious goals, including reducing its carbon intensity by 45% by 2030 (compared to 2005 levels) and achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
Air Quality Improvement: Unlike thermal power plants, solar energy does not emit sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, or particulate matter, which are major causes of air pollution and respiratory illnesses in India’s cities.
Water Conservation: Traditional coal and nuclear power plants consume large volumes of water for cooling.
- E.g., Solar photovoltaic systems require negligible water, making them highly suitable for water-stressed states such as Rajasthan and Gujarat.
Land-use Efficiency: Solar installations on canal tops (Gujarat Canal Solar Project) and floating solar plants (Kerala’s Kayamkulam Project) reduce land pressure, prevent evaporation, and enhance renewable output without encroaching on farmland.
Biodiversity Protection: By reducing dependence on coal mining, solar energy helps preserve forest ecosystems, such as those in Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand, otherwise degraded by mining activities.

Economic benefits of solar energy generation in India

Energy Security: Solar energy enhances energy self-sufficiency, saving billions in foreign exchange.
- E.g., According to NITI Aayog, renewable energy expansion could reduce fossil fuel imports by up to $94 billion annually by 2030.
Employment Generation: Solar projects create green jobs in installation, manufacturing, and maintenance.
- E.g., The renewable sector in India is estimated to generate over 1 million jobs by 2030, with solar being the largest contributor.
Affordability: The cost of solar power in India has fallen drastically to around ₹2.5–3 per unit, making it cheaper than coal-based electricity.
Rural Development and Energy Access: Decentralized solar grids and rooftop systems provide reliable electricity in remote villages.
- E.g., The PM-KUSUM scheme empowers farmers by enabling them to install solar pumps, reducing dependence on diesel and enhancing farm incomes.
Industrial and Investment Opportunities: India’s solar mission has attracted significant domestic and foreign investment.
- E.g., Large solar parks in states like Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh have become hubs for industrial development and green infrastructure.

With schemes such as PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana and KUSUM, solar power has become a transformative tool for inclusive and sustainable development. Strengthening domestic manufacturing under “Make in India” and expanding decentralized models can further consolidate India’s solar leadership on the global stage.