Challenges in the Development of Low-Carbon Energy Sources in India
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Technická Univerzita v Liberci
Technical university of Liberec, Czech Republic
Technical university of Liberec, Czech Republic
Abstract
India is undergoing an energy transition driven by the dual imperatives of continuing economic growth and the urgent need for climate change mitigation. This article analyzes the planning documents, achievements and future challenges of developing low-carbon energy sources (LCESs) in India. Our considerations are based on the latest statistical data on LCESs development and major government policy documents. India has made significant progress in developing LCESs, focusing on solar, wind, and nuclear power to support economic growth and to mitigate climate change. Between 1990 and 2023, renewable energy production in India increased by 1900 times, from 437 TJ to 830227 TJ. Solar energy has become the cornerstone of India's low-carbon strategy, with aggressive expansion supported by government policy. However, dependence on fossil fuels, especially coal, remains high, increasing from 55% to nearly 63% of the energy production during the same period. The weakness of many planning documents and policies is the lack of measurable goals and dates for their planned implementation, as well as poor analyses of realistic ways to achieve these goals. Key barriers include limited funds for investment, limited energy storage infrastructure, improper energy grid modernisation, regulatory inconsistencies, socioeconomic disparities, and slow policy implementation. A more balanced focus is essential on decentralised energy systems, improved energy efficiency, and just transition strategies.
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Low-Carbon Economy, Sustainable Development, Energy Sector, Energy Transition, National Policy, India
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978-80-7494-747-6