Unlocking India's Renewable Energy Potential: Overcoming Land Challenges for Net-Zero Emissions
Key Ideas
  • India has a vast renewable energy potential of over 24,000 GW but faces challenges in reaching the 7,000 GW required for net-zero emissions by 2070, including land constraints and population density.
  • The study by CEEW emphasizes the importance of strategic land use, water management, and resilient grid infrastructure for scaling up renewable energy, including solar, wind, and green hydrogen, to achieve India's climate goals.
  • States like Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Ladakh are identified as having high unconstrained RE potential, with significant solar and wind resources, while regions like Odisha and Madhya Pradesh could play key roles in India's renewable energy ambitions.
  • Recommendations include establishing graded land banks, enhancing grid infrastructure, and involving all stakeholders to ensure the sustainable and equitable achievement of India's ambitious RE and green hydrogen targets.
India's renewable energy potential is highlighted in a study by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), stating the country has over 24,000 GW potential but faces challenges in reaching the 7,000 GW required for net-zero emissions by 2070. The study emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to address obstacles like land access, climate risks, conflicts, and population density. Currently at 150 GW installed capacity, India can feasibly handle constraints up to 1,500 GW, but scaling beyond that poses significant challenges. Strategic land use, water management, and grid infrastructure are crucial for scaling solar, wind, and green hydrogen technologies. The study identifies states with high RE potential like Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh and emphasizes the importance of regions like Odisha and Madhya Pradesh in meeting India's renewable energy goals. Recommendations include establishing land banks, enhancing grid resilience, and involving all stakeholders for sustainable progress towards the ambitious targets.
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