What is "Clean Energy"? List the sources of clean energy and explain how they work. Which of these sources…

Question

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?

Ghissu Editorial · Accepted Answer

Clean energy is energy produced with little or no greenhouse gas or pollution, from solar (PV cells), wind (turbines), hydro, biomass, geothermal and hydrogen fuel cells. Solar, wind, hydro and biomass are already widely used in India, while geothermal and fuel cells remain emerging.

**Introduction**

India’s clean energy transition⟦1⟧ addresses climate change and rising energy demand, aiming for 50% non-fossil capacity by 2030 (reached in 2025) and net-zero emissions by 2070. This shift is vital for sustainable development and energy security.

**Institutional Framework and State Initiatives**

1. **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 Scheme⟦3⟧⟦2⟧ (CCTS) promote energy efficiency and carbon reduction. Fiscal incentives such as Generation Based Incentives encourage private investment.

**Clean Energy Sources and Mechanisms**

1. **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.  
2. **Hydropower and Biomass**: Hydropower plants on Krishna and Godavari rivers generate significant renewable energy⟦4⟧ 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.

**Challenges and Outcomes**

1. **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.

**Way Forward**

1. **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.

**Conclusion**

India’s clean energy progress, backed by robust policies and state efforts, is key to sustainable growth and meeting climate commitments⟦5⟧.

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