India’s COP26 commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070 is poised to lead the nation on a path to clean, green, and sustainable economic development. India, in 2022, has a tremendous responsibility to shape the course of its future: decisions made and implementations planned this year will drive climate security and justice, food and nutritional wellbeing, and equitable delivery of natural resources to the people.
Here are five critical trends that will advance sustainable development for India this year.
Climate justice
While announcing India’s long-term commitments at COP26, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also highlighted near-term targets for 2030, signalling that it is time to move from commitments to action. If climate change is not managed well, it can be inequitable, especially for the poor and marginalised communities. Hence, greater sensitivity to ensuring justice will be needed.
A shift from concentrated thermal power plants to decentralised solar generation, for example, will mean a shift in job locations and a change in the quality of jobs. A move from internal combustion engines to electric mobility could mean reduced jobs in vehicle maintenance, but possible increases in other sub-sectors. These factors cannot be ignored as we plan to lead action towards our commitments.
Renewable energy
Renewable energy currently accounts for 10 per cent of the electricity generated in India. Reaching the capacity of 500 gigawatts by 2030, while sourcing 50 per cent of the energy requirement from such sources, calls for a transition at a massive scale. 2022 marks the first milestone in India’s journey towards this goal and it seems to be on track to achieve its annual 175 GW target. Making this transition at the needed scale also requires a look at opportunities beyond traditional solar and wind power.
Apart from financial needs, this transition will require shifts in the current distribution system, which is largely designed for concentrated generation and a grid-based system. This will have to change to accommodate decentralised generation and the possible use of smaller local grids. Investments will be needed for energy storage to mitigate the intermittency of renewable energy.
If managed right, a clean energy transition can improve the quality of life of rural communities, especially for women. It could also improve healthcare and education and facilitate a host of local economic activities to create new jobs.
Read More at https://theprint.in/opinion/renewable-energy-to-climate-action-how-india-can-achieve-sustainable-development-in-2022/902060/
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