Energy Statistics India 2024 - Analysing the sustainable energy goals and renewable energy sector in

As India continues its journey towards a more sustainable future, the latest Energy Statistics India 2024 report sheds light on the nation's progress and challenges in the realm of renewable energy and climate action. With ambitious targets and comprehensive plans, India stands at the forefront of global efforts to mitigate climate change through sustainable energy initiatives. Central to this endeavour is India's pledge to achieve net zero emissions by 2070, a pivotal aspect driving sustainable energy goals and enhancing energy efficiency.

The report highlights the increasing energy consumption per capita, indicating improved access to electricity across the country. Energy use per capita has increased over the decade, with Total Primary Energy Supply per capita to 22,724 Mega Joules in 2021-2022.

The report reveals a notable shift in energy demand from non-renewable to renewable sources. The share of Renewable Energy in Total Primary Energy Supply (TPES) has ascended to 3.81% in 2021-22 whereas the share in Total Electricity has reached to 20.34% in 2022-23. Despite this positive trajectory, the non-renewable sector continues to dominate, with the energy sector being the largest consumer of raw coal and lignite in India.

India's grid emission factor currently stands at 0.7132 kgCO2e per kWh, showcasing gradual improvement with increased penetration of renewable energy. Countries with advanced technological infrastructures in renewable energy, such as Norway and Sweden, boast even lower emission factors, highlighting the journey India must undertake to decarbonise its electricity production and achieve the to achieve its net zero emissions target by 2070.

The development and strengthening of power evacuation infrastructure is an investment-intensive task to increase the green energy mix in the network. Initiatives, such as the Green Energy Corridor that aim to develop transmission infrastructure to evacuate power from renewable energy-rich states to demand centres, will help increase the renewable share in total energy and electricity.

Intermittency in generation and consequently reliability of supply is another bottleneck that needs to be addressed to move towards net zero transition. India's net zero ambition by 2070 relies significantly on deploying Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and Ancillary Services. BESS plays a critical role in integrating intermittent renewable energy sources into the grid, ensuring stability and reliability. Moreover, Ancillary Services, including frequency regulation and voltage control, optimise grid operations and support renewable energy integration.

The Sectoral Energy Intensities is another type of economic indicator that aims to measure the sectoral energy intensity of major energy-consuming sectors and to determine the energy efficiency in different sectors. Focus should now be placed on the transportation sector where the most efficient technological advancements in terms of sustainability can be deployed and ensure the growth of this sector with green mechanisms and policies. Integration of electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy sources is pivotal in this journey and promises to bring about disruptive innovation, as evidenced by the adoption of EVs by taxi aggregators and the focus on renewable energy for fuel.

The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) launched in 2019, aims to support farmers in installing solar pumps and grid-connected solar power plants on their lands. The scheme also promotes decentralised solar power generation, reducing the burden on conventional power sources. The scheme coupled with other renewable energy-based initiatives, such as decentralised cold storage, drying facilities etc. will help decarbonise the agriculture sector.

India's concerted efforts to address infrastructure gaps, incentivise consumer adoption, and foster industry collaboration position it as a frontrunner in transitioning towards EVs and nurturing a sustainable transportation ecosystem. Leveraging financial incentives, public awareness campaigns, and supportive policies, alongside investments in charging infrastructure and domestic manufacturing, will not only reduce emissions but also spur economic growth and technological innovation. India's renewable energy policies underscore a steadfast commitment to sustainable development, energy security, and climate action. Through collective endeavours, India can realise its vision of a cleaner, greener future while advancing energy security and inclusive development.

Source:-  Energy Economic Times