UPSC Mains Answer: Give an account of the current status and the targets to be achieved pertaining to renewable energy sources in the country. Discuss in brief the importance of National Programme on Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs).

Difficulty Level: Medium

Pre-requisite: Foundational knowledge of India’s energy sector, including the National Solar Mission (launched in 2010), the Paris Agreement (2015), and the evolution of renewable energy policies post-2000. Familiarity with basic concepts of energy efficiency, demand-si

Sub-category: Environment and Ecology (Sustainable Development, Energy)

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Renewable energy has emerged as a cornerstone of India’s sustainable development strategy, aligning with global climate commitments under the Paris Agreement. As of 2016, India’s installed renewable energy capacity stood at approximately 43 GW, comprising solar (6.7 GW), wind (26.7 GW), small hydro (4.3 GW), and bioenergy (8.3 GW). The government’s ambitious target under the National Solar Mission and broader renewable energy goals aimed to achieve 175 GW of renewable capacity by 2022, including 100 GW from solar, 60 GW from wind, 10 GW from biomass, and 5 GW from small hydro projects. These targets reflect India’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions by 33-35% by 2030 and enhancing energy security through diversification of sources.
The National Programme on Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), launched under the Domestic Efficient Lighting Programme (DELP) in 2015, plays a pivotal role in this transition. LEDs are highly energy-efficient, consuming up to 80% less power than traditional incandescent bulbs, thereby reducing electricity demand and greenhouse gas emissions. The programme aimed to replace 770 million incandescent bulbs with LEDs by 2019, resulting in an estimated annual energy savings of 100 billion kWh and a reduction of 80 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions. Additionally, it promotes affordability through bulk procurement and subsidies, making LEDs accessible to low-income households. The success of this initiative underscores the importance of demand-side management in achieving energy efficiency and sustainability.
Looking ahead, India must address challenges such as financing, grid integration, and domestic manufacturing to meet its renewable energy targets. The LED programme exemplifies how targeted interventions can accelerate the adoption of clean technologies, contributing to both environmental and economic benefits.