In a study called Renewable energy prospects for India, IRENA has traced out action areas that can help India unleash its huge renewable energy potential. By implementing the suggestions, the agency says that India can ensure clean and sustainable energy for future generations while fulfilling its commitment towards the Paris Climate Agreement.
The study, which is a part of the REmap programme, reveals that solar energy will have a crucial role to play being the second largest source of the country's renewable power use with 16%. It is closely followed by wind power at 14% ahead of hydropower which would make up 7% of the total renewable energy use by 2030.
Biofuels as per IRENA stands out by making up 62% while being useful in not just electricity generation but also in transport and heating purposes.
IRENA Director-General Adnan Z. Amin said: “With one of the world's largest and most ambitious renewable energy programmes, India is taking a leading role in the energy transformation both regionally and globally.
“India possesses a wealth of renewable resources, particularly for solar and bioenergy development, which can help meet growing energy demand, power economic growth and improve energy access, as well as boost overall energy security.”
The IRENA study says that India can potentially grow its share of renewable electricity generation to more than one-third by 2030.
By deploying renewable energy technologies, the country can also reduce the demand for coal and oil products by 17-23% in the country by 2030, the report said.
