Q. Explain briefly the ecological and economic benefits of solar energy generation in India with suitable examples.
Possible Introductions
Fact-based intro
India, with 300 sunny days annually and an estimated 750 GW solar potential (MNRE), has rapidly expanded solar generation, crossing 82 GW installed capacity in 2024 under the National Solar Mission.
Sustainability intro
Solar energy is a cornerstone of India’s transition towards clean energy, providing ecological resilience and economic opportunities simultaneously.
Global context intro
As part of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), India positions solar energy not only as an ecological necessity but also as a developmental engine.
Main Body
1. Ecological Benefits
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- Low Carbon Footprint: Solar power reduces reliance on coal → mitigates GHG emissions. Example: 1 GW solar can save ~1.6 million tonnes of CO₂ annually.
- Air Quality Improvement: Cuts SO₂, NOx, and particulate matter → cleaner urban environments.
- Water Conservation: Unlike thermal power plants, solar PV consumes negligible water. Example: Bhadla Solar Park (Rajasthan) functions in arid zones with minimal water use.
- Land Optimization through Innovation: Floating solar projects (Kerala, Telangana) reduce land use and evaporation losses.
- Biodiversity Support: Agro-solar models allow dual use of land for farming + energy.
2. Economic Benefits
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- Employment Creation: Solar sector generated ~1.6 lakh jobs (2023, CEEW report) in installation, O&M, manufacturing.
- Energy Security: Reduces import dependence on coal & oil → saves foreign exchange. Example: Solar avoided USD 8–9 billion fossil fuel imports in 2022 (IEA).
- Cost Competitiveness: Solar tariffs have fallen to ₹2–2.5/unit, cheaper than coal in many cases.
- Decentralized Rural Development: Rooftop & off-grid solar improves rural electrification (e.g., solar pumps under PM-KUSUM).
- Export Potential: India emerging as solar manufacturing hub under PLI scheme.
Flowchart (Text form)
Solar Energy → Ecological Gains (Low emissions, water savings, biodiversity) + Economic Gains (Jobs, low tariffs, energy security, exports).
Possible Conclusions
Balanced
Solar energy in India bridges the ecological–economic divide by reducing carbon intensity while generating jobs and affordable power.
Policy-linked
Initiatives like National Solar Mission, PM-KUSUM, and ISA leadership showcase India’s commitment to sustainable growth.
Forward-looking
Harnessing solar’s full potential can make India a global clean energy leader, ensuring both climate resilience and inclusive economic prosperity.
