UPSC DAW Mains Answer Writing 2025 9th September
Question
In recent years, India’s energy demand has been growing rapidly in the context of climate change. What is the current status of India’s energy demand? Discuss the concerns associated with growing energy demand due to climate change and suggest possible measures to address the concerns. (15 marks, 250 words)
Model Answer
Introduction:
Climate change has become one of the most pressing issues of our time, affecting various aspects of life, including energy consumption. The interplay between climate change and energy use is complex and multifaceted, leading to significant consequences for our energy systems and future consumption patterns.
Status of energy demand in India:
According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), 85% of the increase in global electricity demand over the next three years will come from emerging and developing economies.
India’s Electricity generation has increased from 1,168 billion units (BU) in 2015–16 to an estimated 1,824 BU in 2024–25.
Per capita electricity consumption rose by 45.8% to 1,395 kWh in 2023-24 from 957 kWh in 2013-14.
Installed Renewable Energy capacity has grown from 76.37 GW in March 2014 to 226.79 GW in June 2025, an increase of nearly 3 times.
Concerns Associated with growing energy demand due to climate change:
Increased Demand for Cooling:
The most immediate impacts of climate change on energy consumption are the increased demand for air conditioning and refrigeration.
Example: According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the demand for air conditioning is projected to triple by 2050, particularly in developing regions where heatwaves are becoming more common.
Increasing the use of fossil fuels:
Despite adoption of renewable energy, increasing energy demand will also increases the use of fossil fuels to meet the needs of energy consumption.
Example: one billion tonnes (BT) of coal production on 20 March 2025, in FY 2024-25—11 days ahead of last year’s 997.83 million tonnes (MT).
Changes in Heating Needs:
The fluctuations in seasonal temperatures and the occurrence of extreme weather events create uncertainty in energy requirements. For instance, unusually cold snaps can lead to spikes in heating demand, putting additional pressure on energy resources, and potentially resulting in grid overloads.
Strained power grids:
The surges in demand during peak summer months puts significant pressure on power grids, potentially leading to shortages and necessitating new infrastructure.
More intense and frequent heatwaves:
Record-breaking heatwaves directly contribute to higher electricity consumption for cooling, as seen in China and India.
Measures to meet India’s growing energy demands:
Increasing domestic production of energy:
India is increasing its production of energy capacity through various measures.
Example: India’s total installed power capacity reached 476 GW as of June 2025.
Expansion of renewable energy:
India aims to significantly increase non-fossil fuel capacity through initiatives like the PM Surya Ghar Mufti Bijili Yojana for rooftop solar and the PM KUSUM scheme to solarize agricultural feeders.
Policy and regulatory reforms:
Implementing multi-pronged approach through various policy reforms such as National green hydrogen mission to promote various bio energy projects etc.
Grid modernisation:
Implementing measures like providing funds for meter installations and using covered wires in loss-prone areas to reduce Aggregate Technical & Commercial (AT&C) losses.
Increasing fuel supply:
Permitting the blending of imported coal at domestic coal-based plants to augment supply.
CONCLUSION:
India's path to energy security lies in simplifying regulations, modernizing infrastructure, and boosting investment in renewable energy. By enhancing domestic manufacturing, adopting new technologies like green hydrogen, and fostering public-private collaboration, India can reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and meet its growing energy demand and can fight effectively with climate change