A new kind of green (GS Paper 3, Environment)
Context
- The article outlines the need for India to adopt a strategic and integrated approach to energy policy to navigate the complexities of its energy transition effectively.
Dual-Pronged Energy Policy:
- India's current energy policy comprises two main components: managing fossil fuels to mitigate import dependency and accelerating the transition to renewable energy.
- While efforts are being made to diversify fossil fuel imports and enhance efficiency, there's also a commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070 and generating 500 GW of electricity from non-fossil fuels by 2030.
Fragmented Implementation Structure:
- The implementation of these policies is managed by separate ministries, resulting in a fragmented decision-making process.
- Ministries overseeing fossil fuels operate independently from those promoting renewable energy, hindering the creation of a cohesive energy strategy.
Need for Integrated Decision Making:
- An integrated approach to decision-making is imperative to achieve India's ambitious decarbonization and sustainability goals.
- Given the international forces influencing the green transition and concerns over supply chain resilience and national security, a holistic view of the energy value chain is essential.
Geopolitical Ramifications:
- The geopolitical landscape, marked by great power competition, particularly between the US and China, has implications for India's energy transition.
- China's dominance in green technology and critical minerals raises national security concerns, necessitating strategic measures to mitigate vulnerabilities.
Proposal for a Converged Energy Strategy:
- To address these challenges, the article proposes developing a comprehensive strategic document titled "Energy Strategy: Towards Convergence, Security, and Sustainability."
- This strategy should integrate the current two-track energy policy, address key issues such as resource requirements and competitiveness, and encourage private investment.
Conclusion:
- In conclusion, an integrated and strategic approach to energy policy is crucial for India to achieve its sustainability and decarbonization objectives amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics and technological innovation.
- By unifying its energy policies, addressing implementation challenges, and fostering private investment, India can navigate the complexities of its energy transition successfully.
