Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to the conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our Government for this purpose?

Solar photovoltaic generation converts sunlight directly into electricity, offering a renewable and increasingly competitive alternative to conventional coal- and gas-based power. India, endowed with about 300 clear sunny days and high insolation, has made solar the spearhead of its clean-energy transition, crossing 90 GW of installed solar capacity.

Benefits over conventional generation

• Environmental: zero fuel combustion means no greenhouse gases, particulates or SO2, easing air pollution and helping meet the Panchamrit and net-zero-by-2070 goals.
• Economic: negligible operating and fuel costs, and tariffs that have fallen to around Rs 2 per unit, below new thermal power.
• Energy security: reduces dependence on imported coal and oil, saving foreign exchange.
• Decentralised access: rooftop and off-grid solar can electrify remote and agrarian areas without long transmission lines.

Its variability, storage cost and land and module-import dependence remain challenges to be managed.

Government initiatives

• National Solar Mission (JNNSM) with an expanded target of 500 GW non-fossil capacity by 2030.
• PM-KUSUM for solar pumps and PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana for rooftop solar.
• Solar Parks scheme, PLI for high-efficiency modules, and the Green Energy Corridor.
• Internationally, India co-founded the International Solar Alliance.

Backed by these measures, solar is pivotal to affordable, secure and sustainable growth.