UPSC DAW Mains Answer Writing 26th July 2025

UPSC DAW Mains Answer Writing 26th July 2025

Question

Despite significant growth in renewable energy capacity, fossil fuels continue to dominate global and national energy consumption. In this context, critically examine the limitations of relying solely on renewables for meeting India’s energy needs. (10 marks, 150 words) 

Model Answer

Introduction:  

  • India has made remarkable progress in renewable energy, with an installed capacity of over 180 GW as of 2024, ranking fourth globally. However, despite this growth, fossil fuels still account for nearly 75% of India’s total primary energy demand. According to IRENA (2024), globally, the share of renewables in electricity generation has increased to 29.9%, yet absolute fossil fuel use has not declined. This reveals that renewables alone cannot meet rising energy needs or ensure a clean energy transition. 

 Limitations of Relying Solely on Renewables: 

  • Intermittency and Storage Challenges: 

  • Solar and wind are variable energy sources, dependent on weather and time. 

  • E.g. Solar power is unavailable at night; storage batteries (E.g., lithium-ion) are still expensive and environmentally intensive. 

  • Rising Energy Demand Outpaces Renewable Growth: 

  • India’s electricity demand is projected to double by 2040 (IEA, 2021). 

  • Renewables, while growing, are mostly catering to additional demand, not replacing fossil-based generation. 

  • Infrastructural Bottlenecks: 

  • Grid integration of variable renewables requires smart grids, balancing systems, and transmission upgrades. 

  • NITI Aayog (2021) highlighted delays in Green Energy Corridor implementation. 

  • Regional and Economic Imbalances: 

  • Majority of installations are in a few resource-rich states (Rajasthan, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu). 

  • Remote or underdeveloped areas, especially in North-East and Central India, lack capacity, access, and investment. 

  • Limited Role in Non-Electric Sectors: 

  • Renewables primarily serve electricity needs (22% of energy use); transport, industry, and agriculture still rely on oil, coal, and gas. 

  • E.g. Steel and cement sectors still depend on coal for high-temperature processes. 

  • Import Dependence on Technology and Components: 

  • Over 80% of solar modules used in India are imported, mostly from China (MNRE, 2024). 

  • Geopolitical and supply chain vulnerabilities make India’s transition precarious. 

  • Land and Ecological Constraints: 

  • Solar/wind projects require large land tracts, often in ecologically fragile or inhabited areas. 

  • Example: Conflicts in Rajasthan’s Bhadla region between solar developers and local pastoralists. 

 Strengths of Renewables: 

  • Rapid Decline in Costs: 

  • Solar tariffs in India fell to ₹2/kWh, cheaper than new coal power. 

  • Example: Rewa Solar Park (Madhya Pradesh) powers Delhi Metro at competitive rates. 

  • Decentralised Energy Access: 

  • Rooftop solar and mini-grids are enhancing rural electrification. 

  • Saubhagya Scheme and KUSUM Scheme (for solar pumps) have created distributed clean energy systems. 

  • Job Creation and Green Growth: 

  • Renewable sector created over 1.5 million jobs in India (IRENA, 2023). 

  • Drives green entrepreneurship in rural India (e.g., solar maintenance MSMEs). 

  • Energy Security and Climate Commitments: 

  • Reduces dependence on imported coal and oil. 

  • Supports India’s NDCs under the Paris Agreement, including net-zero target by 2070. 

  • Technology Innovations Are Bridging Gaps: 

  • Green hydrogen, solar-wind hybrids, and pumped hydro storage show promise. 

  • National Green Hydrogen Mission (2023) aims for 5 MMT production by 2030.   

 Conclusion:  

  • While renewables are indispensable for a low-carbon future, they are not a panacea. A realistic energy strategy must balance energy security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability through a diverse and resilient energy mix. As emphasized in India’s G20 Presidency (2023), a ‘just, affordable, and inclusive’ energy transition requires strengthening infrastructure, innovation, and equitable access to energy for all.