Renewable Energy: Is India Ready to Embrace it Fully?

Delhi's power consumption recently hit an all-time high of 8,302 MW. Moreover, the national capital witnessed a record-breaking temperature of 53 degrees Celsius. This extreme summer heat not only strains the existing power infrastructure but also highlights the urgent need to shift towards renewable energy sources.

According to a new report from the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), the heatwave-driven peak power demand could catalyze a long-term reduction in India's reliance on gas-based power, highlighting the growing importance of renewable energy.

Renewable energy is produced from natural resources that are present in abundance out there. Unlike fossil fuels, which are finite and contribute to environmental degradation, renewable energy sources are sustainable and environmentally friendly. It includes:

Solar Energy: Harnessed from the sun’s rays, solar energy is one of the most abundant and accessible forms of renewable energy. Solar panels convert sunlight directly into electricity, offering a clean and sustainable energy source.

Wind Energy: Generated by harnessing the kinetic energy of wind, wind turbines convert wind flow into electrical power. Wind farms, both onshore and offshore, are expanding globally as a viable alternative to traditional power sources.

Hydro Energy: Produced from the energy of moving water, hydroelectric power plants generate electricity by utilizing the flow of rivers and streams. Hydropower has been one of the most reliable renewable energy.

Geothermal Energy: This involves tapping into the Earth’s internal heat to generate electricity. Geothermal plants use steam produced from reservoirs of hot water found a few miles below the Earth's surface.

Biomass Energy: Derived from organic materials such as plant and animal waste, biomass can be used directly via combustion to produce heat or converted into biofuels for power generation.

Heatwave Strain and Power Systems

The record-breaking heatwaves in North India have pushed power demand to unprecedented levels. This surge in demand places immense pressure on the power grid, often leading to blackouts and power cuts.

The over-reliance on gas-based power during peak summer months proves to be both economically and environmentally unsustainable. The IEEFA report highlights the inefficiency and high costs associated with gas-based power, making a strong case for a transition to renewable energy.

Economic and Environmental Impact

The economic strain from increased power consumption during heatwaves is significant. Gas-based power plants, though capable of meeting peak demand, are expensive to operate.

The environmental impact of relying on fossil fuels cannot be overstated. Gas emissions contribute to air pollution and exacerbate the greenhouse effect, leading to more severe and frequent heatwaves.

Advantages of Adopting Renewable Energy

Renewable sources are abundant and can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Solar and wind energy have seen substantial reductions in costs, making them competitive with traditional power sources. Projects based on renewable energy can create jobs and stimulate economic growth, particularly in rural areas.

The intermittent nature of renewable energy is the only thing that may be of some concern. However, the advancements in energy storage technologies are making it possible to store excess energy and supply it when demand is high. Battery storage systems, for instance, can store solar energy collected during the day and release it at night.

The concept itself of round-the-clock renewable energy involves integrating different renewable sources and storage solutions to provide a reliable power supply.

A Sustainable Future

The extreme heatwaves experienced in India are a stark reminder of the urgent need to rethink our energy strategies. The transition to renewable energy is not just a necessity for mitigating climate change but also for ensuring a stable and sustainable power supply. By investing in renewable energy infrastructure and technology, India can reduce its dependence on fossil fuels, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and build a resilient energy system capable of withstanding future challenges.

As we move towards a future powered by renewable energy, it is essential to promote policies that encourage the adoption of clean energy solutions. Public awareness and support for renewable energy initiatives will play a crucial role in achieving a sustainable and energy-secure future for India.