Impact of large-scale solar parks in India: The challenges of renewable energy

Source: The post impact of large-scale solar parks in India has been created, based on the article “The challenges of renewable energy” published in “The Hindu” on 22nd April 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3- environment-climate change and economy- infrastructure (renewable energy)

News: The article discusses the impact of large solar parks in India on local communities and the environment. It explores the need for better policies and community involvement to ensure that renewable energy projects like solar parks benefit everyone and don’t harm the environment or local livelihoods.

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What is the impact of large-scale solar parks in India?

Positive Impacts of Large-Scale Solar Parks

Steady Income for Landowners: In regions like Pavagada, Karnataka, farmers benefit from leasing their drought-stricken land to solar parks, providing a reliable annual income.

Renewable Energy Production: Solar parks significantly contribute to India’s renewable energy output, helping reduce dependency on fossil fuels and aiding in the pursuit of Net Zero emissions by 2070.

Employment Opportunities: Large-scale renewable energy projects can generate job opportunities at the local level, contributing to employment growth in the regions where they are developed.

Negative Impacts of Large-Scale Solar Parks

Land Requirements: Currently, 214 sq. km of land are under solar parks; however, estimates suggest up to 75,000 sq. km may be needed, to reach Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2070

Loss of Common Lands: Near Bhadla, Rajasthan, solar parks have led to the loss of sacred common lands and grazing areas, negatively affecting local farmers and pastoralists.

Resource Competition: The large water demand for maintaining solar panels can conflict with local water needs, impacting water security.

Biodiversity and Ecosystem Disruption: Construction of solar parks can lead to biodiversity loss, especially in sensitive ecosystems like deserts, impacting overall ecological balance.

What should be done?

Expand Community Engagement: Solar Park developments should involve local communities in planning and decision-making to align projects with local needs and prevent conflicts, similar to the community leasing in Pavagada.

Revise Legal Frameworks: Strengthen laws to require Environmental and Social Impact Assessments for solar parks to prevent adverse effects on local communities and ecosystems.

Promote Agrivoltaics: Implement agrivoltaic systems that combine agriculture with solar energy, providing dual land use for energy production and farming, maximizing land efficiency and supporting local economies.

Enhance Training Programs: Develop targeted training programs to equip local populations with new skills, ensuring they benefit from shifts in employment opportunities due to renewable energy projects.

Question for practice:

Discuss the impacts of large-scale solar parks in India, considering both the positive and negative aspects, and propose measures to address potential issues.