The road to Energy Atmanirbharta

GS Paper 3

Syllabus: Indian Economy- Energy

Source: Indian Express

Direction: Know a few points on Energy security, Environment security, Social security and other dimensions

Context: It is an editorial article (yesterday’s) suggesting ways for India to become “Atmanirbhar” in the energy sector by 2040.

The IEA defines energy security as the uninterrupted availability of energy sources at an affordable price.

What does India need to do to achieve energy security by 2040?

• • • Focus on self-reliance and not self-sufficiency: As self-sufficiency may not be feasible and economical.
    • Access to fossil fuels: As the transition to a green energy system is a lengthy, time taking and costly process.
      • GAIL is investing in the development of a national gas pipeline grid.
      • India must expand its strategic petroleum reserves to cover at least 30 days of consumption.
    • Access to critical materials needed for green energy: g., minerals/components (copper, cobalt, lithium, semiconductor chips etc.) required to build EVs, solar panels, wind turbines and batteries.
    • Offer green incentives to encourage private participation: g., a Production-linked incentive scheme (PLI) offers benefits for investment in green energy.
    • Demand management: Energy usage norms must be standardised and tightened. Legislation should be properly enacted to ensure compliance.
    • Retraining and upskilling: esp. in the upcoming green energy sector
    • Energy diplomacy: Success in navigating economic and geopolitical uncertainties will depend greatly on skilful diplomacy.
    • Holistic governance: Institutions should be created to facilitate integrated energy planning and implementation.

Mains Links

Q. Discuss the ways that India can achieve energy security and strategic autonomy in the energy sector by 2040

Prelims Links

Link it with a status of sources of energy- renewable, non-renewable, % share etc.