What is "Clean Energy"? List the sources of clean energy and explain how they work. Which of these sources can be used or are already widely used in India?

Policy and Incentives

The National Solar Mission targets 500 GW renewable capacity by 2030; schemes like Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) and Carbon Credit Trading Scheme32 (CCTS) promote energy efficiency and carbon reduction. Fiscal incentives such as Generation Based Incentives encourage private investment.

Solar and Wind Energy

Solar power uses photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight into electricity; capacity surged to 140 GW by 2026 due to declining costs and government support. Wind turbines convert air currents to electricity, with 54.65 GW installed, including Rayalaseema and coastal Andhra Pradesh, harnessing both coastal and inland wind resources.

Hydropower and Biomass

Hydropower plants on Krishna and Godavari rivers generate significant renewable energy4 by channeling flowing water through turbines. Biomass energy, derived from agricultural residues and wood, still meets much of rural cooking and heating needs, with an estimated availability of 750 million metric tonnes annually.

Rural Energy Access

The PM Surya Ghar mission has brought rooftop solar to over a million homes, enhancing affordability and reducing fossil fuel dependence, improving energy equity.

Technology and Grid Modernization

Boost R&D in emerging technologies like green hydrogen and advanced energy storage to reduce import dependence. Expand smart grids and storage infrastructure, especially in Andhra Pradesh, to manage renewable variability and improve grid stability.