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In pursuit of building a solar industry, India has come a long way from 10-20 MW in 2010 to 73 GW of installed solar capacity in 2023. Setups like utility solar, rooftop and floating solar in India are seeing incredible and consistent progress through Government (Govt.) support, foreign investment, domestic entrepreneurship, geographical and geopolitical opportunities available.

Since more than 60% of the country’s population resides in villages, India has focused on electrifying the rural households. It is important to note that as per India Residential Energy Survey (IRES) 2020, nearly 97% of Indian households are electrified. Therefore, we can surmise the incredible importance rural India poses in green energy transition. In such a scenario, community solar plants using solar PV modules stand to bring sustainable development, illuminating remote villages and urban neighbourhoods alike.

Empowering Rural India

Community solar model can help multiple households utilize solar energy with Vikram solar panels, even without having a rooftop solar plant or having utility solar powering their grids. Developing countries like India can benefit from community solar as it removes the need to have enough space on roof/ground to opt for solar or to bear the initial cost of installing a solar plant on roof. The decentralized nature of community solar allows for the establishment of mini-grids, ensuring that even the most isolated communities can access reliable and clean energy with high quality modules from solar manufacturers in India.

The positive impact on education and healthcare in these areas cannot be overstated. With a stable source of electricity, schools can operate efficiently, while health clinics can refrigerate vaccines, power medical equipment, and offer better life saving services, improving overall healthcare in these regions.

Economic Growth and Job Creation

India’s foray into community solar has not only improved energy access but has also proven to be an economic catalyst. The development and maintenance of solar projects require skilled labour, creating job opportunities and contributing to the country’s economic growth. As these projects proliferate, there is a growing demand for engineers, technicians, and support staff, fostering a vibrant job market. Distributed solar is expected to create seven times more jobs than utility solar and has the potential to generate 2.8 lakh jobs by 2030.

Environmental Stewardship

At a time when environmental sustainability is paramount, community solar projects in India using Vikram solar panels can make huge contributions to reduce the nation’s carbon footprint. Community solar encourages a shift towards sustainable practices at the grassroots level. Thus bringing the common man in the fold to act on climate awareness. A study by CEEW (Council on Energy, Environment, and Water) and BYPL (BSES Yamuna Power Limited) shows that buying power from a community solar PV modules plant can reduce electricity bills by 35% in India. Power Distribution Company BYPL, Delhi Electricity Distribution Company, and CEEW have calculated an immediate need for solar energy in residential sectors, to increase national solar adoption rate. 

Challenges to Overcome

Although the opportunities are immense, there are challenges in realizing the community solar sector. Lack of clarity on roles and responsibilities among stakeholders, lack of technical knowledge to install, operate, and maintain plants, unavailability of revenue management systems are few of the issues that are limiting community solar growth in India. Solving these problems through policy development, enforcement, encouraging and investing money for community solar growth can facilitate progress. 

The Future of Community Solar in India

As India continues its journey towards becoming a global solar power player, the role of community solar in this narrative becomes increasingly crucial. The decentralized and inclusive nature of these projects aligns with the principles of sustainable development, ensuring that the benefits of solar energy reach farthest corners of the country.

As the global community grapples with the pressing challenges of climate change, United Nation’s 28th Climate Change Conference (COP28) stands as a pivotal moment for nations worldwide to chart a sustainable path forward. Against a backdrop of escalating environmental concerns, COP28 resolutions hold the promise of transformative change.

COP28 COMMITTING TO A FASTER GREEN ENERGY TRANSITION

COP28 marks a crucial juncture in international efforts to combat climate change by acknowledging the need to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions almost 43% by 2030. The resolutions adopted at this summit emphasize the urgency of collective action and pledge substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The focus was on encouraging parties to take actions towards tripling of renewable energy capacity on a global scale and nearly doubling energy efficiency by 2030. COP28 discussions also pressed on phasing down coal power and reducing fossil fuel subsidies to rapidly drive the transition away from fossil fuels in energy systems. The discussions impressed upon the importance of developing countries leading the green energy transition and parties were encouraged to come forward with ambitious, economy-wide emission reduction targets by 2025. Decision on improving the funding arrangements and operationalization of the loss and damage fund led to $700 million fund commitments. The Green Climate Fund (GCF) received a boost as well and the discussions led to a better collaboration between Government bodies and key stakeholders to reduce emissions globally. 

INDIA’S ROLE AND COMMITMENTS

As one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, India plays a pivotal role in the fight against climate change. The country has made significant strides in renewable energy, with ambitious targets for increasing its share in the energy mix. India acted as an inspiration for all members at the COP28 by considerably emission intensity by 33% between 2005 and 2019, eleven years ahead of schedule; thus, achieving its NDC target set for 2030 and surpassing expectations.

Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement of ‘Mission LiFE’ – Lifestyle for Environment clearly identifies India’s commitment to climate improvement. At COP28, India presented the Green Credit Initiative, offering a global platform to encourage development of innovative environmental programs and instruments. G20 nations adopting India’s Green Development Pact at COP28 further complements India’s leadership in climate action globally. Besides these developments, India’s global contributions in International Solar Alliance (ISA), Global Biofuel Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and Global River Cities Alliance at COP28 paints India in a bright light.

CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

While COP28 resolutions provide a roadmap for a sustainable future, challenges persist. The economic implications of transitioning to green technologies, the unequal burden on developing nations, and the need for robust enforcement mechanisms are some of the hurdles that demand attention. However, within these challenges lie opportunities for innovation, job creation, and the establishment of a resilient global economy. By leveraging these opportunities, nations can not only mitigate the impact of climate change but also foster sustainable development.

COP28 resolutions signify a collective determination to address the very real threat of climate change. As nations, including India, navigate the path forward, it is imperative to view the resolutions not merely as mandates but as an opportunity for transformative change. The commitments made at COP28 must be translated into actionable policies, innovative solutions, and sustained efforts at the national and global levels.

Human Resource in Renewable Energy

The renewable energy sector in India employs a total of 719,000 individuals, both directly and indirectly, positioning it as the fourth-largest employer globally. Since 2015, it has seen the creation of 303,000 jobs. Hydropower alone accounts for 48 percent of renewable energy employment in India, employing 347,000 people, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). Solar PV follows as the second-largest employer, sustaining over 115,000 jobs directly and indirectly, constituting 16 percent of renewable energy employment. Other sectors such as biogas, solid biomass, wind power, and liquid biofuels collectively employ 261,000 people, with each contributing to varying degrees.

During a COP26 seminar titled “Changing the Climate for the Most Vulnerable: Lessons on Climate Resilience in India, from Green Villages to Cool Cities,” NRDC, in collaboration with the Council on Energy, Environment, and Water (CEEW) and Skill Council for Green Jobs (SCGJ), disseminated their report titled “India's Expanding Clean Energy Workforce: Opportunities in the Solar and Wind Energy Sectors.” This report underscores India’s evolving climate goals. Their research, focusing on solar and wind employment in 2020-21 and the employment prospects associated with India's 500 GW target, reveals that smaller-scale solar initiatives, like solar PV or distributed renewable energy, generate more jobs domestically and globally. These decentralized positions, often situated in rural areas, could offer economic opportunities to marginalized populations.

Moreover, a World Economic Forum (WEF) report suggests that India's transition to a net-zero economy by 2070 could yield 50 million jobs and over $1 trillion in economic opportunities by 2030.

However, a report by the Institute of Energy Management and Research highlights a critical issue in securing a skilled workforce: the inadequacy of training infrastructure. While thermal induction infrastructure is satisfactory, infrastructure for hydro and power system induction is severely lacking. Merely 3% of the required capacity for refresher training is available, significantly hampering the ability to find appropriately skilled individuals. Furthermore, only 4% of the current demand for management training is met by existing infrastructure. This shortage significantly impacts organizational decision-making, efficiency, and overall effectiveness, particularly in a rapidly evolving business landscape. In such a scenario, there is a pressing need to prioritize the development of management skills that encompass economic, social, and environmental aspects of industrial management.

The solar energy sector presents a domain that has received relatively less attention regarding HRM practices and recruitment strategies, thereby presenting significant HR challenges for companies operating within this industry. It is recommended to enhance employee job satisfaction, refine human resource management practices and strategies, and bolster training initiatives and research institutes within the solar energy sector. This, in turn, aims to attract a more skilled workforce and foster greater productivity and efficiency. It is advocated that educational institutions adopt a practical approach to teaching, particularly in the context of solar energy courses, and collaborate with industry players to refine course structures and offer practical-based education. Such measures are envisaged to equip students with the requisite skills and enhance their employability prospects in the solar energy industry.

Cameron et al. (2015) conducted a study exploring the job potential of various energy sources, including wind, solar, biomass, geothermal, as well as traditional sources like nuclear, hydropower, and coal. The study evaluated their potential for job creation across different geological formations and depths. Findings revealed that renewable energy sources, including wind and photovoltaic (PV), despite having lower capacity factors compared to traditional sources, exhibit a greater potential to generate employment. This is evidenced by the comparison of job creation per unit of energy produced. Enhanced primary data collection on the employment intensity of conventional generating technologies would bolster the credibility of claims regarding the net employment benefits of renewables.

For future research, there is scope to delve into recruitment and selection processes within the solar energy industry to gain deeper insights into their dynamics. Investigating these aspects comprehensively would enable researchers to develop a nuanced understanding of recruitment mechanisms and identify areas for improvement. Additionally, attention can be directed towards examining selection criteria alongside recruitment criteria for future research endeavors.

The Importance of Solar Panels in India: Paving the Path to Sustainable Energy

India, a nation with a rapidly growing economy and a burgeoning population, faces a significant challenge in meeting its ever-increasing energy demands. **Solar panel importance in India** has never been more critical, as the country strives to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. Embracing solar energy not only helps in reducing dependence on fossil fuels but also aids in combating climate change. This article delves into the multifaceted importance of solar panels in India, exploring their benefits, government initiatives, economic implications, and the future of solar energy in the nation.

Harnessing Abundant Solar Energy

India is geographically blessed with ample sunlight, receiving nearly 300 sunny days a year. This abundant solar irradiance positions the country perfectly for **solar energy harnessing**. Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity, making it a renewable and sustainable source of energy. Unlike fossil fuels, solar energy is inexhaustible and environmentally friendly.

Reducing Carbon Footprint

One of the most significant advantages of solar panels is their ability to reduce carbon emissions. India, being one of the largest carbon emitters globally, can substantially lower its carbon footprint by transitioning to solar energy. Solar panels generate electricity without burning fossil fuels, thus producing no greenhouse gases. This shift is crucial for India to meet its commitments under the Paris Agreement and to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change.

Energy Independence

Reliance on imported fossil fuels has always been a strategic vulnerability for India. By investing in solar energy, India can enhance its energy security and reduce dependency on foreign energy sources. This independence is vital for the nation's economic stability and growth. Solar panels provide a decentralized form of energy production, reducing the risk associated with supply chain disruptions and fluctuating international energy prices.

Economic Benefits of Solar Panels

Job Creation

The solar industry has the potential to create millions of jobs in India. From manufacturing and installation to maintenance and sales, solar panel deployment opens up numerous employment opportunities. This job creation spans various skill levels, contributing to both urban and rural economies. As the industry grows, it also fosters the development of ancillary industries, further boosting economic growth.

Cost Savings

Solar panels, though requiring an initial investment, offer significant long-term cost savings. Once installed, solar panels have low operating costs and require minimal maintenance. For households and businesses, this translates to reduced electricity bills. Additionally, government incentives and subsidies make solar energy an even more attractive financial proposition. Over time, as technology advances and production scales up, the cost of solar panels continues to decrease, making them more accessible to a broader population.

Government Initiatives and Policies

The Indian government has been proactive in promoting solar energy through various initiatives and policies. The **National Solar Mission**, launched in 2010, aims to establish India as a global leader in solar energy. The mission's goals include achieving 100 GW of solar power capacity by 2022, with long-term targets set even higher.

Subsidies and Incentives

To encourage the adoption of solar panels, the government offers several subsidies and incentives. These include capital subsidies for rooftop solar installations, tax exemptions, and reduced interest rates on loans for solar projects. Such financial support significantly lowers the barrier to entry for consumers and businesses alike.

Solar Parks and Infrastructure Development

The development of solar parks and infrastructure is another critical aspect of government policy. Solar parks provide land, utilities, and grid connectivity, making it easier for private investors to set up large-scale solar projects. These parks are designed to attract both domestic and international investments, fostering a robust solar industry ecosystem.

Technological Advancements & Efficiency Improvements

Technological advancements continue to improve the efficiency and affordability of solar panels. Innovations in photovoltaic technology, such as the development of perovskite cells, promise higher efficiency rates and lower production costs. Enhanced efficiency means that more electricity can be generated from a smaller surface area, making solar panels more viable for a variety of applications.

Energy Storage Solutions

Energy storage is a critical component of a reliable solar energy system. Advances in battery technology, such as lithium-ion and flow batteries, are making it possible to store solar energy for use during non-sunny periods. This capability is essential for ensuring a stable and continuous power supply, especially in remote or off-grid areas.

The Future of Solar Energy in India

Rural Electrification

Solar panels play a pivotal role in rural electrification. Many rural areas in India still lack access to reliable electricity. Solar panels, combined with microgrids, provide a sustainable solution to this challenge. By electrifying rural areas, solar energy not only improves the quality of life but also supports agricultural productivity and educational opportunities.

Urban Integration

In urban areas, integrating solar panels into buildings and infrastructure is becoming increasingly popular. Rooftop solar installations and building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) offer efficient ways to harness solar energy in densely populated cities. Smart grids and net metering further enhance the viability of urban solar energy solutions, allowing excess power generated by solar panels to be fed back into the grid.

Sustainable Development Goals

Solar energy contributes significantly to achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It promotes affordable and clean energy (SDG 7), supports industry innovation and infrastructure (SDG 9), and addresses climate action (SDG 13). By investing in solar energy, India aligns its development trajectory with global sustainability standards.

Conclusion

he importance of solar panels in India cannot be overstated. As the country grapples with energy demands, environmental challenges, and economic development, solar energy emerges as a beacon of hope. From reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy security to creating jobs and fostering technological innovation, solar panels offer multifaceted benefits that are crucial for India's sustainable future.

By leveraging its abundant solar resources and continuing to support solar initiatives, India can lead the way in the global renewable energy transition, ensuring a brighter, cleaner, and more prosperous future for its citizens.