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Context

• Rooftop solar (RTS) is poised to revolutionize India’s energy landscape, offering a sustainable, decentralized, and affordable solution to meet the country’s increasing electricity demands.
• As of March 31, 2024, India's installed RTS capacity reached 11.87 GW, marking a significant annual growth of 2.99 GW, the highest reported in a single year.
• To sustain this momentum and meet future energy needs, India must intensify efforts to expand its RTS potential.

What is the RTS Programme?

• The Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission, launched in January 2010, initially aimed to achieve 20 GW of solar energy production, including RTS, across three phases ending in 2022.
• In 2015, this target was revised to 100 GW by 2022, with RTS accounting for 40 GW.
• Due to extended deadlines and ongoing initiatives, including SUPRABHA and SRISTI schemes, India continues to pursue aggressive solar energy goals.

Will New Solar Power Rules Boost Production?

• Recent regulatory changes aim to accelerate solar energy production, supporting India's goal of installing 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, with a substantial solar component contributing to broader net-zero targets by 2070.

State Performance and Challenges

• States like Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan lead in RTS adoption, leveraging proactive policies and robust infrastructure.
• Conversely, states such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand face challenges like bureaucratic delays and inadequate infrastructure, hindering RTS deployment.

Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana

• The flagship 'Muft Bijli Yojana' aims to equip 1 crore households with RTS systems, providing up to 300 units of free electricity monthly.
• With a total capacity addition target of 20 GW and a significant financial outlay of Rs 75,021 crore, the scheme includes provisions for financial assistance, incentives, capacity building, and technological advancements to enhance RTS efficiency and accessibility.

Streamlining Approvals and Enhancing Efficiency

• To facilitate RTS growth, the Indian government is streamlining regulatory clearances and promoting ease of business, aiming to reduce administrative barriers and accelerate RTS installations nationwide.

READ ABOUT ROOFTOP SOLAR: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/pradhan-mantri-suryodaya-yojana#:~:text=Launched%20in%202014%2C%20the%20Rooftop,installed%20capacity%20by%20March%202026.

https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/rooftop-solar-programme

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Examine the potential and challenges of rooftop solar energy in India. Discuss the policy measures and incentives that have been implemented to promote its adoption. What further steps can be taken to enhance the growth of rooftop solar installations in the country?

SOURCE: The Hindu