India’s Rooftop Solar Expansion and Challenges Ahead

Source-This post on India’s Rooftop Solar (RTS) Programme has been created based on the article “How well is India tapping its rooftop solar potential?” published in “The Hindu” on 27 June 2024.

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Context– India added 2.99 GW of rooftop solar (RTS) capacity in 2023-2024, marking its highest annual growth. As of March 31, India’s total RTS capacity stood at 11.87 GW. The article highlights that to meet India’s increasing energy demands, it must intensify efforts to further expand its RTS potential.

India’s total RTS potential is around 796 GW. To achieve its broader goal of installing 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, with a solar component of 280 GW, RTS alone needs to contribute about 100 GW by 2030.

What is the RTS Programme?

India launched the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission in January 2010 with the goal of achieving 20 GW of solar energy, including rooftop solar (RTS), across three phases: 2010-2013, 2013-2017, and 2017-2022.

In 2015, this target was revised to 100 GW by 2022, including a 40 GW RTS component, with annual targets set for each state and union territory. As of December 2022, India had installed 7.5 GW of RTS capacity and extended the deadline for the 40 GW target to 2026.

What is the State-wise Performance?

1) Best Performing States-

A) Gujarat: 3,456 MW –This is due to quick approvals, numerous installers and high consumer awareness.

B) Maharashtra: 2,072 MW-This is due to robust solar policies, conducive regulatory and environment.

C) Rajasthan: It has the highest potential for rooftop solar (RTS) in India, with 1,154 MW capacity, aided by its vast land area and ample solar radiation. Efforts to simplify approvals, offer financial incentives, and promotion of RTS through public-private partnerships have driven this growth.

2) Moderate performers-Kerala: 675 MW, Tamil Nadu: 599 MW, Karnataka: 594 MW

3) Underperforming states: -Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand

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What are some of the challenges?

Fully realizing the potential of RTS systems faces challenges including bureaucratic hurdles, inadequate infrastructure, and limited public awareness

What should be the way forward?

1) Awareness-It is important to create awareness to engage consumers.

2) Financial Feasibility of RTS Systems for Households – Rooftop Solar (RTS) systems need to be financially feasible for households. There is a requirement for several affordable financing alternatives apart from government subsidies.

3) Research and Development-Investing in research and development for solar technology, energy storage solutions, and smart grid infrastructure is important. This investment can lower expenses, boost performance, and enhance the dependability of RTS systems.

4) Skilled Workforce-Initiatives such as vocational training programs, like the ‘Suryamitra’ solar PV technician program initiated in 2015 should be promoted to develop a skilled workforce.

5) Modernizing Regulatory Framework-It is necessary to revise and modernize net-metering regulations, grid-integration standards, and building codes. These updates will address new challenges and facilitate the seamless implementation of rooftop solar (RTS) systems.

Question for practice

What is the Rooftop Solar (RTS) Programme? How can its effectiveness be enhanced through proactive measures?