Making it happen: Balance between solar and thermal energy
POWER & RENEWABLE ENERGY

Making it happen: Balance between solar and thermal energy

India’s strides in recent years to achieve its renewable goals should be accompanied by fair questions about costs and other disproportionate impacts. Tariffs of solar energy have plummeted to Rs 1.99 per unit from the high of Rs 14 per unit a few years ago. The overall energy sector is under stress but the demand for solar energy seems to be on the rise.

However, to say that renewable energy has already become cheaper than coal-based thermal energy, as Rahul Tongia from Brookings India put it, “masks…system-level costs as well as the disproportionate impact (it had) on selected States’ generators and stakeholders”. Accordingly, before blowing the victory bugle there is a critical need to examine the implications of what was happening.

What are the direct and indirect costs incurred due to shifting of focus on renewable energy?
Who is bearing this cost?
Is the manner in which the renewable energy mission was being rolled out in the country sustainable?

As former head of the Project Monitoring Group and Secretary, Ministry of Coal, Anil Swarup explains why it is imprudent to instal renewable plants at the cost of thermal energy.

Read the article here

India’s strides in recent years to achieve its renewable goals should be accompanied by fair questions about costs and other disproportionate impacts. Tariffs of solar energy have plummeted to Rs 1.99 per unit from the high of Rs 14 per unit a few years ago. The overall energy sector is under stress but the demand for solar energy seems to be on the rise. However, to say that renewable energy has already become cheaper than coal-based thermal energy, as Rahul Tongia from Brookings India put it, “masks…system-level costs as well as the disproportionate impact (it had) on selected States’ generators and stakeholders”. Accordingly, before blowing the victory bugle there is a critical need to examine the implications of what was happening. What are the direct and indirect costs incurred due to shifting of focus on renewable energy? Who is bearing this cost? Is the manner in which the renewable energy mission was being rolled out in the country sustainable? As former head of the Project Monitoring Group and Secretary, Ministry of Coal, Anil Swarup explains why it is imprudent to instal renewable plants at the cost of thermal energy.Read the article here

Next Story
Resources

Madhya Pradesh Champions Inclusive Tourism at Heritage Sites

On the occasion of World Heritage Day, Madhya Pradesh is taking a significant step toward inclusive tourism by making its historical sites accessible to all — especially persons with disabilities. The state is rolling out its ‘Accessibility Infrastructure and Development’ project at Maheshwar, Mandu, Dhar, and Orchha, aiming to create a more welcoming experience at these iconic cultural destinations.The initiative, under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav and Tourism Minister Shri Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi, includes infrastructure upgrades such as ramps, Braille signage, w..

Next Story
Resources

Runwal Realty Onboards Sonam Kapoor as Brand Ambassador

Real estate major Runwal has unveiled a refreshed identity as Runwal Realty, signalling a renewed commitment to crafting spaces that stand the test of time. With this refresh, the brand unveils its new philosophy: “Building for Generations to Come” and welcomes Bollywood star and global fashion icon Sonam Kapoor as its brand ambassador. This evolved identity reflects Runwal Realty’s commitment to creating not just homes, but heirlooms—crafted through visionary design, meticulous planning, global design expertise and an unwavering focus on quality. With the customer at its core, each de..

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

Emerging Trends in Infrastructure and Transport 2025: KPMG

KPMG’s latest report, The Great Reset: Emerging Trends in Infrastructure and Transport 2025 edition, sheds light on the profound changes transforming the global infrastructure landscape. As industries adapt to the challenges posed by climate change, economic pressures, and technological advancements, the report identifies key trends and provides actionable insights for leaders in infrastructure and transport sectors. “In today’s interconnected world, the lack of standardized supply chain practices is not just an operational challenge—it’s an environmental and economic one. We’..

Advertisement

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?