India Taps into Renewable Energy Potential

Source: Anindya Sundar Parira, et al. | · T&D WORLD · | June 27, 2022

Source: T&D World

India’s renewable energy opportunities include solar, wind, small hydropower and biopower, among other technologies. The Indian government recognizes harnessing these resources are vital for economic growth and improving the climate. Its Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) estimates a renewable energy potential of around 1700 GW from commercially exploitable sources, including about 695 GW from wind at 120 m (394 ft), 211 GW from small hydropower, 45 GW from bioenergy and 750 GW from solar energy (assuming 3% wasteland development). In addition, solar photovoltaic and solar thermal technologies can produce around 35 MW/sq km (13.5 MW/sq mile).

The current trend shows India’s clean energy potential is mostly untapped. To maximize renewable energy efficiency, the government set an aggressive capacity target of 175 GW by 2022, including 100 GW of solar energy. In addition, it set targets of 265 GW by 2024-2025 and 500 GW by 2030, whereby 50% of the country’s electricity generation capacity would come from renewable energy sources.

To help meet these targets, India’s National Infrastructure Pipeline task force aims to provide world-class renewable energy facilities in the country, with the government implementing supporting policies and regulations. This infrastructure is expected to improve the quality of life for all citizens and attract critical infrastructure investments to enable India to become a US$5 trillion economy by 2025.