Consider the following statements regarding the National Electricity Plan 2023:
1. It projects over 50% installed power capacity from non-fossil sources by 2030.
2. It proposes nationwide shutdown of thermal plants older than 25 years.
Which of the following is/are Correct?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Answer: Only 1
Explanation –
According to the National Electricity Plan (2022-32), notified by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), India has set a target to derive more than 50% (approximately 57.4%) of its installed electricity capacity from non-fossil fuel sources (renewables, nuclear, etc.) by 2030. Therefore, Statement 1 is correct. This plan aligns with India's 'Updated Nationally Determined Contribution' (NDC) under the Paris Agreement. Statement 2 is incorrect because the plan does not mandate the closure of all power plants older than 25 years; instead, keeping energy security in mind, it advocates for the retirement only of those plants that are not economically or environmentally viable. Given the rising demand for electricity by 2030, a limited requirement for coal-based capacity has also been indicated.
Additional Points –
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS): The plan projects the development of a significant amount of electricity storage capacity by 2031-32.
Target: The total installed capacity is projected to exceed 900 Gigawatts (GW) by 2030.
Potential Exam Questions and Answers –
Question: By which year does India aim to achieve its 'Net Zero' emissions target?
Answer: By 2070.
Question: To which global summit does the 'Panchamrit' declaration relate?
Answer: COP26 (Glasgow).