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Source: The post India addressing carbon emissions has been created, based on the article “Hurdles on the path to green growth — and how to remove them” published in “Indian express” on 18th May 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3-Environment – Climate change
Context: The article discusses the impact of climate change, particularly a recent heatwave, and emphasizes the need for green energy. It highlights India’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions, including government initiatives and voluntary actions by industries, while also outlining the challenges and investment needs. India addressing carbon emissions
For detailed information on impact of climate change on India read Article 1, Article 2, Article 3
How is India addressing carbon emissions?
Government Initiatives: India has launched several initiatives to promote green energy, including the PLI scheme for solar modules, viability gap funding for offshore wind and battery storage, and the FAME scheme for electric vehicles.
For more information on FAME scheme read this article here
National Green Hydrogen Mission: This mission aims to use green hydrogen in refining, chemicals, fertilizers, and transport, with a projected capex of Rs 8-9 lakh crore.
For more information on National Green Hydrogen Mission read this article here
Climate Target: The government aims to enhance non-fossil power to 50% by 2030.
What challenges exist in reducing carbon emissions?
High Emissions: As the third-largest carbon emitter, India faces immense pressure to reduce emissions in key sectors like power, steel, and cement.
Transition Risks: These sectors face risks such as policy, regulatory, technology, market, reputation, and legal challenges during the shift to green technology.
Investment Needs: India needs Rs 11-12 lakh crore for renewable energy investments and Rs 5-6 lakh crore for transmission infrastructure and storage by 2030.
Hard-to-Abate Sectors: Sectors like steel and cement need carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) to reduce emissions. The cement sector requires two million tonnes of CCUS capacity per year by 2030, costing Rs 1,600-1,800 crore.
How are industries responding to the push for green technology?
Steel Industry: Domestic steel-makers aim to reduce their carbon footprint by 25-30% by 2030 through various technological interventions.
Green Hydrogen: Many Indian entities have launched pilot projects and announced plans to set up production facilities for green hydrogen and green ammonia.
Carbon Capture: For the cement industry, carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) is being considered to reduce emissions, with a need for two million tonnes of CCUS capacity by 2030.
What should be done?
Promote Hybrid Projects: Use hybrid renewable energy projects (wind and solar) with energy storage systems to ensure round-the-clock supply.
Enhance Carbon Sequestration: Implement carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) in sectors like steel and cement.
Provide Government Support: Offer policy interventions, subsidies, duty exemptions, and tax benefits to accelerate the green technology transition in hard-to-abate sectors.
Question for practice:
Discuss India’s initiatives and challenges in addressing carbon emissions.
