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In pursuit of building a solar industry, India has come a long way from 10-20 MW in 2010 to 73 GW of installed solar capacity in 2023. Setups like utility solar, rooftop and floating solar in India are seeing incredible and consistent progress through Government (Govt.) support, foreign investment, domestic entrepreneurship, geographical and geopolitical opportunities available.

Since more than 60% of the country’s population resides in villages, India has focused on electrifying the rural households. It is important to note that as per India Residential Energy Survey (IRES) 2020, nearly 97% of Indian households are electrified. Therefore, we can surmise the incredible importance rural India poses in green energy transition. In such a scenario, community solar plants using solar PV modules stand to bring sustainable development, illuminating remote villages and urban neighbourhoods alike.

Empowering Rural India

Community solar model can help multiple households utilize solar energy with Vikram solar panels, even without having a rooftop solar plant or having utility solar powering their grids. Developing countries like India can benefit from community solar as it removes the need to have enough space on roof/ground to opt for solar or to bear the initial cost of installing a solar plant on roof. The decentralized nature of community solar allows for the establishment of mini-grids, ensuring that even the most isolated communities can access reliable and clean energy with high quality modules from solar manufacturers in India.

The positive impact on education and healthcare in these areas cannot be overstated. With a stable source of electricity, schools can operate efficiently, while health clinics can refrigerate vaccines, power medical equipment, and offer better life saving services, improving overall healthcare in these regions.

Economic Growth and Job Creation

India’s foray into community solar has not only improved energy access but has also proven to be an economic catalyst. The development and maintenance of solar projects require skilled labour, creating job opportunities and contributing to the country’s economic growth. As these projects proliferate, there is a growing demand for engineers, technicians, and support staff, fostering a vibrant job market. Distributed solar is expected to create seven times more jobs than utility solar and has the potential to generate 2.8 lakh jobs by 2030.

Environmental Stewardship

At a time when environmental sustainability is paramount, community solar projects in India using Vikram solar panels can make huge contributions to reduce the nation’s carbon footprint. Community solar encourages a shift towards sustainable practices at the grassroots level. Thus bringing the common man in the fold to act on climate awareness. A study by CEEW (Council on Energy, Environment, and Water) and BYPL (BSES Yamuna Power Limited) shows that buying power from a community solar PV modules plant can reduce electricity bills by 35% in India. Power Distribution Company BYPL, Delhi Electricity Distribution Company, and CEEW have calculated an immediate need for solar energy in residential sectors, to increase national solar adoption rate. 

Challenges to Overcome

Although the opportunities are immense, there are challenges in realizing the community solar sector. Lack of clarity on roles and responsibilities among stakeholders, lack of technical knowledge to install, operate, and maintain plants, unavailability of revenue management systems are few of the issues that are limiting community solar growth in India. Solving these problems through policy development, enforcement, encouraging and investing money for community solar growth can facilitate progress. 

The Future of Community Solar in India

As India continues its journey towards becoming a global solar power player, the role of community solar in this narrative becomes increasingly crucial. The decentralized and inclusive nature of these projects aligns with the principles of sustainable development, ensuring that the benefits of solar energy reach farthest corners of the country.

As the global community grapples with the pressing challenges of climate change, United Nation’s 28th Climate Change Conference (COP28) stands as a pivotal moment for nations worldwide to chart a sustainable path forward. Against a backdrop of escalating environmental concerns, COP28 resolutions hold the promise of transformative change.

COP28 COMMITTING TO A FASTER GREEN ENERGY TRANSITION

COP28 marks a crucial juncture in international efforts to combat climate change by acknowledging the need to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions almost 43% by 2030. The resolutions adopted at this summit emphasize the urgency of collective action and pledge substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The focus was on encouraging parties to take actions towards tripling of renewable energy capacity on a global scale and nearly doubling energy efficiency by 2030. COP28 discussions also pressed on phasing down coal power and reducing fossil fuel subsidies to rapidly drive the transition away from fossil fuels in energy systems. The discussions impressed upon the importance of developing countries leading the green energy transition and parties were encouraged to come forward with ambitious, economy-wide emission reduction targets by 2025. Decision on improving the funding arrangements and operationalization of the loss and damage fund led to $700 million fund commitments. The Green Climate Fund (GCF) received a boost as well and the discussions led to a better collaboration between Government bodies and key stakeholders to reduce emissions globally. 

INDIA’S ROLE AND COMMITMENTS

As one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, India plays a pivotal role in the fight against climate change. The country has made significant strides in renewable energy, with ambitious targets for increasing its share in the energy mix. India acted as an inspiration for all members at the COP28 by considerably emission intensity by 33% between 2005 and 2019, eleven years ahead of schedule; thus, achieving its NDC target set for 2030 and surpassing expectations.

Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement of ‘Mission LiFE’ – Lifestyle for Environment clearly identifies India’s commitment to climate improvement. At COP28, India presented the Green Credit Initiative, offering a global platform to encourage development of innovative environmental programs and instruments. G20 nations adopting India’s Green Development Pact at COP28 further complements India’s leadership in climate action globally. Besides these developments, India’s global contributions in International Solar Alliance (ISA), Global Biofuel Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and Global River Cities Alliance at COP28 paints India in a bright light.

CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

While COP28 resolutions provide a roadmap for a sustainable future, challenges persist. The economic implications of transitioning to green technologies, the unequal burden on developing nations, and the need for robust enforcement mechanisms are some of the hurdles that demand attention. However, within these challenges lie opportunities for innovation, job creation, and the establishment of a resilient global economy. By leveraging these opportunities, nations can not only mitigate the impact of climate change but also foster sustainable development.

COP28 resolutions signify a collective determination to address the very real threat of climate change. As nations, including India, navigate the path forward, it is imperative to view the resolutions not merely as mandates but as an opportunity for transformative change. The commitments made at COP28 must be translated into actionable policies, innovative solutions, and sustained efforts at the national and global levels.