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One Sun, One World, One Grid (OSOWOG) initiative

Topics Covered: Conservation related issues.

One Sun, One World, One Grid (OSOWOG) initiative:

Context:

The Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has put calls for proposals to the One Sun, One World, One Grid (OSOWOG) initiative on hold till further notice.

About the initiative:

OSOWOG initiative was proposed by India to set up a framework for facilitating global cooperation which aims at building a global ecosystem of interconnected renewable energy resources that can be easily shared.

Details of the initiative:

Parent Body: The Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).

Objective: To build global consensus about sharing solar resources among more than 140 countries of West Asia and South-East Asia.

The vision is ‘The Sun Never Sets’ and is a constant at some geographical location, globally, at any given point of time.

This grid shall be interconnected with the African power pools also at the later stage.

It has been taken up under the technical assistance program of the World Bank.

Potential and benefits of the initiative:

  • India would generate 40% of power from non-fossil fuels by 2030 and has called for connecting solar energy supply across borders giving the mantra of ‘One World One Sun One Grid’.
  • The proposed integration would lead to reduced project costs, higher efficiencies and increased asset utilization for all the participating entities.
  • This plan will require only incremental investment because it will not require a parallel grid infrastructure due to working with existing grids.
  • It will help all the participating entities in attracting investments in renewable energy sources as well as utilizing skills, technology and finances.
  • Resulting economic benefits would positively impact poverty alleviation and support in mitigating water, sanitation, food and other socio-economic challenges.
  • It will allow national renewable energy management centers in India to grow as regional and global management centers.

InstaLinks:

Prelims Link:

  1. OSOWOG initiative- objectives.
  2. When was it launched?
  3. Implementing agency.
  4. What are non- fossil fuels? Examples.

Mains Link:

Discuss the significance of OSOWOG initiative.

Sources: Down to Earth.