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GS Paper: GS3-13.Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc:

  • Solar surge: Moving away from imported solar panels

    Why in the news? 

    The government is finally bringing into effect the policy of an Approved list of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) that will discourage solar power project developers from relying on imported panels. 

    About Approved Models and Manufacturers of Solar Photovoltaic Modules Order, 2019:

    • Aim: To boost domestic manufacturing of solar panels by registering only those made with domestically manufactured cells, wafers, and polysilicon.
    • Compulsory Registration: The order mandates compulsory registration for solar PV module and cell manufacturers, ensuring they meet certain quality and production standards.
    • Lists: LIST-I for solar PV modules and LIST-II for solar PV cells.
      • Only listed models and manufacturers in these lists are considered approved for use in various government projects and schemes.
    • Eligibility Criteria: To be included in the lists, manufacturers must undergo inspections and meet specific criteria set by the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) to ensure the products are genuinely manufactured and not imported.
    • This order ensures the reliability of solar PV products used in installations, promotes domestic manufacturing, and aligns with the government’s initiatives for renewable energy adoption and energy security.

    Efforts made by the Government to promote domestic Solar Manufacturing:

    • Import Restrictions: The creation of the Approved Models and Manufacturers list was aimed at restricting imports from China, which dominates a significant portion of the global solar supply market.
    • Ambitious Renewable Energy Targets: India aims to source about 500 GW of its electricity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030, with at least 280 GW coming from solar power. This necessitates adding at least 40 GW of solar capacity annually until 2030. So there is need to focus on indegenous solar project

    Challenges ahead:

    • Unrealistic Targets: Despite ambitious targets, India’s solar capacity additions have been relatively low in recent years, attributed in part to the COVID-19 pandemic. The country aims to ramp up installations to between 25 GW and 40 GW annually.
    • Reliance on Imports: A significant fraction of India’s solar installations is met by imports, which affects domestic panel manufacturers who must pay for government certification but lose orders to cheaper Chinese panels. For example surge in Solar panel import in  FY 24 around $1,136.28 million  from FY23 imports $943.53 million

    Conclusion: India’s ALMM policy aims to boost domestic solar manufacturing, aligning with ambitious renewable energy targets. Address challenges like meeting targets and reducing reliance on imports through strategic planning and support.

    Mains PYQ 

    Q Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our government for this purpose? (UPSC IAS/2020)

    https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/renewables/how-india-became-a-frontrunner-in-the-global-renewable-energy-market/articleshow/100271905.cms?from=mdr

    https://mnre.gov.in/approved-list-of-models-and-manufacturers-almm/

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1944075

    https://energy.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/renewable/indias-solar-panel-imports-set-to-remain-higher-in-fy24/106217488#:~:text=During%20the%20initial%20six%20months,million%2C%20according%20to%20Eninrac%20Consulting

  • [29 March 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Understanding India’s coal imports

    [29 March 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Understanding India’s coal imports

    PYQ Relevance:

    Mains: 

    Q) “Despite the adverse environmental impact, coal mining is still inevitable for Development”. Discuss. (UPSC CSE 2017) 

    Q) What are the consequences of Illegal mining? Discuss the Ministry of Environment and Forest’s concept of GO AND NO GO zones for the coal mining sector. (UPSC CSE 2013) 

    Prelims:

    Q) Despite having large reserves of coal, why does India import millions of tonnes of coal?
    1. It is the policy of India to save its coal reserves for the future and import it from other countries for the present use.
    2. Most of the power plants in India are coal-based and they are not able to get sufficient supplies of coal from within the country.
    3. Steel companies need large quantities of coking coal which has to be imported.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (UPSC CSE 2012) 
    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 and 3 only
    (c) 1 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2 and 3

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims: International Organisations;

    Mains: International Organisations; Trades and Practices;

    Mentor comments: The spectre of electricity shortages rises again as hot weather descends across the country. In recent years, increasingly unpredictable weather patterns and a fast-growing economy have led to big increases in electricity demand, the meeting of which reliably becomes a challenge. But some of the discourse in this context deserves greater scrutiny.

    Let’s learn. 

    —

    Why in the News?

    The recent unpredictable Weather Discourse and increase in Energy Demands around the coal sector in India needs a course correction.

    What are the recent challenges highlighted with coal?

    • Challenge with Logistics:
      • Shortage of Domestic Thermal Coal: It is the kind of Coal used in electricity generation, which is primarily blamed for the electricity shortage. Electricity shortage last year was about 840 million units due to poor monsoon, in turn leading to increased demand and reduced supply from some sources. 
      • Shortage of Logistics: According to the Ministry of Power advisory, the core challenge is insufficient logistics to move the coal to power plants. This leads to the second conflation, that the only alternative source is imports. 
    • The issue of imports:
      • Some thermal coal imports to blend with domestic coal may be required even if auctions are used. The question then is about how much of imports for which coal plants. 
      • India has been the major demand side driver of the global coal market. The higher imports is an indication of the preparations to meet the rise in demand of power. 
      • A mandatory blending of 6% imported coal, instead of the current blending levels, can increase the variable cost of coal-based electricity by 4.5%-7.5%. 
      • Indeed, as in the report on Annual Rating of Power Distribution Utilities, power purchase costs increased by 15% in FY23 due to increases in demand, coal imports, and prices of imported coal. 
    • The Issue with Generation and Location:
      • The plants that generate the most (pit-head plants) are situated close to mines, far away from ports, and do not face coal shortages. Shortages in periods of high demand are more likely in plants far away from mines which typically do not generate as much. 

    Way Forward:

    • Reducing Coal dependency: The discourse around coal shortages in the country needs course correction. It cannot be assumed that coal imports are the default way to address shortages. 
    • Increasing Accessibility: The fundamental challenge is to overcome the logistics bottlenecks that are preventing coal from reaching the locations where required. 
    • Government Interventions needed: In the interim, regulatory commissions and distribution utilities must ensure that all coal-based plants are alert to the possibility of coal shortages and identify the cheapest alternative sources which may not be imports to bridge the gap. 

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/understanding-indias-coal-imports/article68003203.ece

  • [pib] International Partnership for Hydrogen and Fuel Cells in the Economy (IPHE)

    Why in the news-

    • The 41st Steering Committee Meeting of the International Partnership for Hydrogen and Fuel Cells in the Economy (IPHE) is being convened in New Delhi.
    • The IPHE Steering Committee Meetings held biannually serve as a crucial platform for fostering international collaboration and coordination among member countries, stakeholders, and decision-makers.

    What is a Fuel Cell?

     

    • A fuel cell is an electrochemical cell that converts the chemical energy into electricity of a fuel and an oxidizing agent.
    • It generates electrical energy from fuel through an electrochemical reaction, offering high efficiency and zero emissions.
    • They are an innovative technology poised to revolutionize electricity generation, often referred to as the “battery of the future“.
    • Fuel cells provide high efficiency, low emissions, and can be used in various applications.
    • Note: Any electrochemical cell generates DC (Direct Current) output.

    Working of a Hydrogen Fuel Cell

    • Hydrogen fuel cells operate on the principle of electrochemical reactions.
    • Hydrogen gas (H2) is fed into the anode (negative electrode) of the fuel cell, while oxygen (usually from the air) is fed into the cathode (positive electrode).
    • At the anode, hydrogen molecules are split into protons (H+) and electrons (e-).
    • The protons travel through an electrolyte to the cathode, while the electrons flow through an external circuit, generating electricity.
    • At the cathode, oxygen molecules react with the protons and electrons to form water (H2O), which is the only byproduct of the process.

    About IPHE

    • The IPHE was established in 2003 as an international inter-governmental partnership led by the US.
    • It aims to accelerate progress in hydrogen and fuel cell technologies.
    • IPHE comprises 21 member countries and the European Commission as a non-voting member.
    • Member countries include major economies such as the United States, Japan, Germany, China, South Korea, and Canada, among others including India.
    • Additionally, the United Kingdom, Russia, and Singapore have also been mentioned in various contexts within the provided sources but are NOT explicitly listed as members of IPHE.

    Objectives of the IPHE

    • Faster Transition: IPHE aims to facilitate and accelerate the transition to clean and efficient energy and mobility systems using hydrogen and fuel cell technologies across different applications and sectors.
    • Information Sharing Platform: The partnership provides a platform for sharing information on member country initiatives, policies, technology status, safety, regulations, codes, standards, and outreach efforts.
    • Advancing Clean Hydrogen Technologies: IPHE promotes a sustainable future by highlighting the versatility of hydrogen in various industries and its role in decarbonizing energy systems.

    Key Initiatives: H2-DEIA Platform

    • In 2023, IPHE announced the launch of the H2-DEIA platform in partnership with the Hydrogen Council.
    • It is dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) within the hydrogen and fuel cell economy.
    • It aims to foster a diverse workforce, share best practices, and support workforce development in the hydrogen sector.

    PYQ:

    Q.With reference to ‘Fuel Cells’ in which hydrogen-rich fuel and oxygen are used to generate electricity, consider the following statements:

    1. If pure hydrogen is used as a fuel, the fuel cell emits heat and water as by-products.
    2. Fuel cells can be used for powering buildings and not for small devices like laptop computers.
    3. Fuel cells produce electricity in the form of Alternating Current (AC).

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (CSP 2015)

    1. 1 only
    2. 2 and 3 only
    3. 1 and 3 only
    4. 1, 2 and 3

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Regarding the International Partnership for Hydrogen and Fuel Cells in the Economy (IPHE), consider the following statements:

    1. IPHE is an international inter-governmental partnership based on the auspices of the United Nations.
    2. India is a member of IPHE.

    Which of the given statements is/are correct?

    1. Only 1
    2. Only 2
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2

  • Railways plans to develop multi-modal transport hubs

    Why in the news? 

    • The Indian Railways will create mega railway terminals with multi-modal connectivity in aspirational cities with a population of more than 10 lakh across the country.

    About the ‘Viksit Bharat’ Initiative – 

    • The program is part of the infrastructure being developed for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ initiative
    • Viksit Bharat 2047 is the vision to transform India into a developed nation by 2047, the 100th year of independence.
    • This vision encompasses various facets of development, such as economic growth, environmental sustainability, social progress, and good governance, to make India a developed nation by 2047.

    Key Provisions as per Railways Plans-

    • Inclusivity and Expansion: The initiative aims to be inclusive by considering inputs from stakeholders and has a vision for expansion beyond its initial parameters to cater to the needs of densely populated areas.
      • The Railway Ministry is actively working on improving the passenger experience in a mission mode, indicating a focused and accelerated effort in this regard.
      • Efforts are being made to improve the cleanliness of coaches and maintain proper amenities on railway premises to enhance the overall travel experience for passengers.
    • Zero Tolerance Policy: The Ministry has issued a warning that any laxity on the part of senior officers will not be tolerated, emphasizing the importance of accountability and responsibility in ensuring passenger satisfaction.
    • Quality check and Monitoring: Principal Chief Mechanical Engineers (PCMEs) of Zonal Railways have been instructed to closely monitor and ensure sustained housekeeping and maintenance activities, indicating a hands-on approach to implementing these improvements.

    Implementing the initiatives outlined could face several challenges:

    • Resource Constraints: Adequate funding, manpower, and infrastructure might be lacking, especially for initiatives that require significant investment in upgrading facilities and maintaining cleanliness.
    • Resistance to Change: Resistance from existing systems, bureaucracy, and resistance to change among stakeholders could impede the implementation of new initiatives.
    • Coordination Issues: Effective coordination among various departments and agencies involved in railway operations may be challenging, leading to delays or inefficiencies in implementation.
    • Technical Challenges: Addressing technical issues related to rolling stock maintenance, cleanliness, and passenger amenities may require specialized expertise and resources.
    • Operational challenges: The vast scale of railway operations across the country presents logistical challenges in ensuring uniform implementation of initiatives and maintaining standards consistently.
    • Training and Capacity Building: Providing adequate training and capacity building for staff involved in implementing and maintaining the initiatives may be necessary but could also be challenging to execute effectively.

    To address the challenges mentioned, several measures can be taken:

    • Resource Mobilization: Explore alternative sources of funding such as public-private partnerships (PPPs), seek investment from international organizations, and allocate budgetary resources efficiently.
    • Capacity Building: Invest in training programs, workshops, and skill development initiatives to enhance the capabilities of staff involved in implementing and maintaining the initiatives.
    • Technology Adoption: Embrace technological solutions such as automated maintenance systems, real-time monitoring tools, and digital platforms to improve efficiency, accuracy, and transparency in operations.
    • Stakeholder Engagement and Communication: Conduct extensive stakeholder consultations to garner support for initiatives, communicate the benefits clearly, and create awareness about the need for change.
      • Simplify bureaucratic procedures, delegate decision-making authority where appropriate, and establish clear accountability mechanisms to facilitate faster implementation.

    Conclusion

    • Indian Railways’ mega terminals aim to transform connectivity in aspirational cities. Challenges like resource constraints and resistance necessitate measures like stakeholder engagement, technology adoption, and streamlined processes for successful implementation.

  • [pib] E- Vehicle Policy to promote India as a Manufacturing Destination for EVs

    Why in the news-

    • The Union Government has approved a scheme aimed at promoting India as a manufacturing destination for e-vehicles (EVs) with the latest technology.
    • The policy aims to attract investments from reputed global EV manufacturers to bolster the EV ecosystem in the country.

    About E- Vehicle Manufacturing Policy

    • Access to Latest Technology: Indian consumers will gain access to the latest technology in EVs, aligning with the Make in India initiative.
    • Strengthening the EV Ecosystem: The policy aims to strengthen the EV ecosystem by fostering healthy competition among EV players, leading to high-volume production and economies of scale.
    • Reducing Import Dependency: By promoting domestic production, the policy aims to reduce imports of crude oil, lower the trade deficit, and curb air pollution, particularly in cities.
    • Key provisions of the Policy include:
    1. Minimum Investment Requirement: A minimum investment of Rs 4150 crore (∼USD 500 million) is required to qualify for the scheme.
    2. Timeline for Manufacturing: Manufacturers must set up manufacturing facilities in India within 3 years, start commercial production of e-vehicles, and achieve 50% domestic value addition (DVA) within 5 years.
    3. Domestic Value Addition (DVA): Localization levels of 25% by the 3rd year and 50% by the 5th year must be achieved during manufacturing.
    4. Customs Duty Incentives: A customs duty of 15% applies to vehicles with a minimum CIF value of USD 35,000 and above, subject to certain conditions.

    Additional Provisions and Requirements

    • Limit on Duty Forgone: The duty foregone on imported EVs is limited to the investment made or ₹6484 crore, whichever is lower.
    • Annual Import Limits: A maximum of 40,000 EVs can be imported annually, subject to investment thresholds.
    • Bank Guarantee Requirement: Investment commitments must be backed by a bank guarantee, which will be invoked in case of non-achievement of DVA and minimum investment criteria.
    • Bank Guarantee Invocation: The bank guarantee will be invoked if companies fail to meet the DVA and minimum investment criteria outlined in the scheme guidelines. 

    Various Policy Moves for Promoting E-Vehicles

    • FAME scheme II (2019): Offers incentives such as subsidies, tax rebates, and preferential financing for EV manufacturers and buyers.
    • National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (2013): Aims to achieve annual sales targets of 6-7 million hybrid and electric vehicles by 2020 through fiscal incentives.
    • Amendments to the Model Building Bye-laws (2016): It requires 20% of parking spaces in residential and commercial buildings to be allocated for EV charging facilities.
    • National Mission on Transformative Mobility and Battery Storage (2019): Aims to create an ecosystem for EV adoption and support the establishment of large-scale battery manufacturing plants.
    • Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme (2021): It incentivises EV and component manufacturing.
    • Vehicle Scrappage Policy (2021): It incentivizes the scrapping of old vehicles and the purchase of new EVs.
    • Ministry of Power’s guidelines: It mandates charging stations every 3 km along grids and every 25 km on highways.

    Try this PYQ from CSE Mains 2019:

    Q. How is efficient and affordable urban mass transport key to the rapid economic development in India?

  • Nuclear Waste Management and India

    nuclear waste

    In the news

    • India recently achieved a significant milestone in its nuclear program with the loading of the core of the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR).
    • However, as India progresses towards energy independence, it faces the complex challenge of managing nuclear waste.

    What is Nuclear Waste?

    • Composition: Nuclear waste comprises radioactive by-products generated during the fission process in nuclear reactors.
    • Radioactive Elements: These by-products include elements such as barium-144, krypton-89, and various isotopes of uranium and plutonium.

    Nuclear Waste Handling Techniques

    • Spent Fuel Storage: Spent fuel, initially stored underwater for cooling, is later transferred to dry casks for long-term storage. This process is critical due to the high radioactivity of spent fuel. Ex.: The U.S. had 69,682 tonnes of spent fuel (as of 2015), Canada had 54,000 tonnes (2016), and Russia had 21,362 tonnes (2014).
    • Liquid Waste Treatment: Nuclear power plants have facilities to treat liquid waste, with some waste being discharged into the environment after treatment.
    • Vitrification: Liquid high-level waste is vitrified to form a stable glass for long-term storage.
    • Reprocessing: Reprocessing separates fissile material from non-fissile elements in spent fuel, allowing for the reuse of valuable materials. Ex.: India operates reprocessing plants in Trombay, Tarapur, and Kalpakkam.
    • Geological Disposal: Some experts advocate for burying nuclear waste deep underground in stable geological formations. Waste is sealed in containers and buried in granite or clay formations, away from human activity.

    Challenges and Concerns

    • Environmental Risks: Improper waste management can lead to contamination of water resources and surrounding areas.
      • Ex.: The Asse II salt mine in Germany faced contamination concerns due to nuclear waste storage.
    • Safety Concerns: Accidents at nuclear waste storage sites highlight the need for stringent safety measures.
      • Ex.: The Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) in the U.S. experienced an accident in 2014, releasing radioactive materials.
    • Cost Implications: Waste management accounts for a significant portion of the overall cost of nuclear energy production.
      • Cost Estimate: Waste management imposes a cost of $1.6-7.1 per MWh of nuclear energy.

    India’s Nuclear Waste Management

    • On-Site Storage: Low and intermediate-level nuclear waste generated at power stations is treated and stored on-site. India’s PFBR project aims to address waste management challenges by utilizing fast breeder reactor technology.
    • IAEA Safeguards: India adheres to International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards, ensuring the safe and secure handling of nuclear materials and waste.
    • Challenges Ahead: The delayed commissioning of the PFBR suggests potential complications in managing spent fuel with different compositions.

    Way Forward

    • Investment in Research: Continued investment in research and development of advanced waste treatment technologies can enhance efficiency and safety in nuclear waste management.
    • International Collaboration: Collaborating with international organizations and sharing best practices can provide valuable insights and expertise in addressing nuclear waste challenges.
    • Public Engagement: Engaging with stakeholders and the public to raise awareness about nuclear waste management and address concerns regarding safety and environmental impact is crucial.
    • Regulatory Framework: Strengthening regulatory frameworks and implementing robust safety standards can ensure compliance with international guidelines and safeguard against potential hazards.

    Conclusion

    • As India advances its nuclear program, effective waste management strategies are crucial to mitigate environmental and safety risks.

    Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2018:

    Q.In the Indian context, what is the implication of ratifying the ‘Additional Protocol’ with the `International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)’?

    (a) The civilian nuclear reactors come under IAEA safeguards.

    (b) The military nuclear installations come under the inspection of IAEA.

    (c) The country will have the privilege to buy uranium from the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).

    (d) The country automatically becomes a member of the NSG.

  • India’s First Cattle Dung-based Bio-CNG Station in Gujarat

    In the news

    • Nestled along the Deesa-Tharad highway in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district lies India’s pioneering gas-filling station, seemingly unremarkable at first glance.
    • However, this station, powered by cattle and buffalo dung, marks a significant leap in renewable energy innovation.

    Fuel Production from Dung: A Technological Marvel

    • Innovative Concept: The ‘BioCNG’ outlet in Dama village of Deesa taluka stands as India’s sole gas-filling station utilizing cattle and buffalo dung.
    • Daily Operations: The outlet serves 90-100 vehicles daily, selling 550-600 kg of gas generated from 40 tonnes of dung processed at an adjacent plant.
    • Dung Utilization: Approximately 40,000 kg of dung are sourced daily from 2,700-2,800 animals belonging to 140-150 farmers residing within a 10 km radius of the plant.

    Understanding the Dung-to-Fuel Process

    • Biogas Production: Fresh dung, rich in methane and water, undergoes anaerobic digestion in a sealed vessel, yielding raw biogas.
    • Purification Process: The raw biogas undergoes purification to remove impurities like CO2 and H2S, resulting in compressed biogas (CBG) suitable for vehicle use.
    • Production Output: From 40 tonnes of dung, the plant generates 2,000 cubic meters of raw biogas containing 55-60% methane, 35-45% CO2, and 1-2% hydrogen sulphide (H2S) and moisture.

    Dual Benefits: Fuel and Fertilizer

    • Fuel Value: CBG is sold at the station for Rs 72/kg, offering a renewable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional fuels.
    • Fertilizer Production: The process also yields bio-fertilizer, enriching soil health and providing an additional income stream for farmers.
    • Fertilizer Sales: The Banaskantha Union markets 8,000-10,000 kg of bio-fertilizer daily, with phosphate-rich organic manure (PROM) fetching Rs 15-16/kg and compost Rs 8-10/kg.

    Significance: Decentralized Model for Sustainable Agriculture

    • Community Involvement: The initiative engages local farmers, who supply dung to the plant, fostering community participation and economic empowerment.
    • Replicability and Scalability: The model holds potential for replication across districts and states, offering a scalable solution for energy and agricultural needs.
    • Investment Plans: The Banaskantha Union plans to commission four additional 100-tonnes capacity plants by 2025, with a total investment of Rs 230 crore.

    Conclusion

    • The establishment of India’s first dung-based gas-filling station represents a significant stride towards renewable energy adoption and agricultural sustainability.
    • As technology continues to evolve, decentralized models like these hold promise for transforming rural economies while mitigating environmental impact.
    • With ongoing support and investment, such initiatives can pave the way for a greener and more resilient future.

    Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2019:

    Q.In the context of proposals to the use of hydrogen-enriched CNG (H-CNG) as fuel for buses in public transport, consider the following statements:

    1. The main advantage of the use of H-CNG is the elimination of carbon monoxide emissions.
    2. H-CNG as fuel reduces carbon dioxide and hydrocarbon emissions.
    3. Hydrogen up to one-fifth by volume can be blended with CNG as fuel for buses.
    4. H-CNG makes the fuel less expensive than CNG.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

  • GPS-based Highway Toll Collection: The New Proposed System

    In the news

    • The government’s plan to implement a new highway toll collection system based on the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) before the 2024 election model code of conduct kicks in.
    • In this article, we delve into the details of the proposed system, its challenges, privacy safeguards, and its relationship with the existing FASTag system.

    New Proposed Highway Tolling System

    • Utilization of GNSS: The system will employ an On-Board Unit (OBU) or tracking device fitted inside vehicles, leveraging the Indian satellite navigation system, GAGAN, for accurate location mapping.
    • ANPR Technology: It will use an automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) system through cameras installed on highways and deduct tolls based on the distance travelled by a vehicle.
    • Digital Image Processing: Co-ordinates of national highways will be logged digitally, and toll rates will be assigned based on the distance travelled by a vehicle, with toll amounts deducted from a wallet linked to the OBU.
    • Enforcement Mechanisms: Gantries mounted with CCTV cameras will monitor highways, capturing high-security registration plate images to prevent evasion, ensuring compliance with the tolling system.

    Challenges in Implementation

    • Recovery of Unpaid Tolls: Recovering toll amounts from non-compliant users poses a challenge, especially when digital wallets linked to OBUs are empty.
    • Evasion and Non-Compliance: Vehicles traveling without OBUs or deliberately switching them off, or misuse of OBUs to pay lower tolls, present enforcement challenges.
    • Infrastructure and Legal Amendments: Setting up ANPR-based systems and amending toll collection rules are essential for the effective implementation of the new system.

    Privacy Safeguards

    • Usage of GAGAN: Utilizing the indigenous GAGAN system instead of GPS ensures data security within the country, addressing privacy concerns.
    • Legal Framework: The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, aims to safeguard privacy, although concerns regarding increased state surveillance exist.

    Co-Existence with FASTags

    • Complementary Systems: The new tolling system will co-exist with FASTags, with no decision yet on mandating OBUs for all vehicles.
    • Operational Efficiency: While FASTags have achieved robust compliance, the GNSS-based system offers lower operational costs and streamlines toll collection processes.

    Key Statistics

    • FASTag Compliance: By December 2023, 98.9% of vehicles passing through toll fee plazas at national highways were FASTag compliant, reflecting widespread adoption.
    • Toll Collection Growth: Toll collection increased 1.5 times from ₹17,942 crore in 2016-2017 to ₹27,744 crore in 2020-2021 at National Highway fee plazas, showcasing the effectiveness of existing mechanisms.

    Conclusion

    • The proposed GNSS-based toll collection system represents a paradigm shift in highway tolling mechanisms, promising greater accuracy, efficiency, and compliance.
    • However, challenges such as recovery of unpaid tolls and infrastructure requirements need to be addressed for successful implementation.
    • With adequate safeguards for privacy and co-existence with FASTags, the new system holds the potential to revolutionize highway toll collection in India.

  • Sela Tunnel: Enhancing Border Connectivity

    In the news

    • The inauguration of the Sela Tunnel by Prime Minister Narendra Modi marks a significant milestone in India’s border infrastructure development, particularly in the strategic Tawang sector.

    About Sela Tunnel Project

    Details
    Location West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh

    On the Balipara-Chariduar-Tawang (BCT) Road
    Feat World’s longest bi-lane tunnel at an altitude above 13,000 feet.
    Connectivity  Ensures all-weather connectivity between Guwahati in Assam and Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh.
    Highway Excavated below the Sela Pass on the NH-13 component of the Trans-Arunachal Highway system.
    Construction Built by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) under Project Vartak.

    Construction commenced on April 1, 2019.
    Project Details Tunnel 1: Single-tube tunnel, 980m in length. –

    Tunnel 2: Bi-lane tunnel, 1555m in length, including one escape tube for emergencies.

    Roads: Approach to Tunnel 1 (7100m), road between the two tunnels (1340m), approach to Tunnel 2 (340m).

     

    Infrastructure Details

    • Strategic Location: Situated on the, the Sela Tunnel provides a crucial link between Guwahati and the strategically important Tawang sector in Arunachal Pradesh.
    • Military Significance: The tunnel facilitates faster military movement to Tawang, home to the Indian Army’s IV Corps, ensuring swift deployment and operational readiness along the border.
    • Operational Benefits: By bypassing foggy stretches at Nechiphu and snow-covered terrain at Sela Pass, the tunnel reduces travel distance by nearly 10 km and travel time by almost an hour for convoys, enhancing logistical efficiency.
    • Technology and Safety: Constructed using the new Austrian tunnelling method, the Sela Tunnel incorporates state-of-the-art safety features, meeting the highest standards set by the Defence Ministry.

    Geopolitical Context

    • Strategic Considerations: Tawang’s geographical significance extends to its proximity to the Brahmaputra plains and its role as a vital axis to Tezpur in Assam, strengthening India’s military posture.
    • Historical Significance: Tawang holds historical and cultural importance as the birthplace of the sixth Dalai Lama and a prominent centre of Tibetan Buddhism, adding to its strategic value.
    • Security Imperatives: Given China’s territorial claims over Tawang and Arunachal Pradesh, India remains vigilant, fortifying its military presence and infrastructure to safeguard its sovereignty.

  • India’s Solar Slowdown: Trends and Projections

    solar

    In the news

    • Following two years of robust growth, India’s solar capacity additions sharply declined by 44% in 2023, the lowest since 2016.
    • What triggered this slowdown, and will this trend persist? Let’s explore.

    Solar Capacity Addition in 2023

    • Decline in Capacity: India added 7.5 gigawatts (GW) of solar power capacity in 2023, a significant drop from the previous year’s record of 13.4 GW. This marked the lowest levels since 2016, except for the pandemic-affected 2020.
    • Large-scale Projects Hit Hard: Capacity additions in large solar power projects declined by over 50% to 5.8 GW from 11.7 GW in 2022. However, rooftop solar power capacity continued to grow by 1.7 GW, consistent with 2022 levels.
    • Cumulative Capacity: India’s cumulative solar power capacity reached 72 GW by the end of 2023, with large-scale projects contributing over 60 GW.

    Reasons for the Decline

    • Regulatory Hurdles: Solar power producers faced regulatory hurdles, including stricter grid connectivity rules and a Supreme Court directive in 2021 mandating the relocation of overhead power cables to protect the Great Indian Bustard habitats.
    • Challenges in Compliance: Compliance with amended grid code provisions became more demanding, leading to delays in project execution. Land acquisition challenges also persisted, further delaying project timelines.

    Outlook for 2024

    • Temporary Setback: The decline in solar capacity addition in 2023 appears to be a temporary setback. The pipeline for 2024 is robust, with 105.3 GW of capacity planned, including an additional 70.6 GW awaiting auction.
    • Delayed Projects: Large-scale projects that were delayed and granted extensions from December 2022 to June 2023 will contribute significantly to capacity additions in 2024.

    Impact of ‘Make in India’

    • Reduction in Imports: India’s solar capacity initially relied on imported cells from China. However, the imposition of customs duties on imported solar modules and cells led to a significant decline in imports.
    • Promoting Local Manufacturing: The introduction of the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) enabled local manufacturers to participate in government bids. However, the ALMM mandate was suspended until April 2024 to maintain momentum in solar installations.

    Alignment with India’s Energy Targets

    • Renewable Energy Capacity: In 2023, India’s renewable energy capacity exceeded 180 GW, with solar contributing 40%. Despite missing the initial targets due to the pandemic, India achieved 60 GW of large-scale solar projects a year later.
    • Future Targets: India aims to achieve a renewable energy target of nearly 600 GW by 2032, with solar accounting for 365 GW. To meet this target, 30 GW of fresh solar capacity must be added annually for the next 8 years.

    Various Policy Initiatives

    • Solar Park Scheme (2014): Initiated in, the Solar Park Scheme aims to develop a series of solar parks, each with a capacity of around 500 MW, across various states.
    • Rooftop Solar Scheme (2016): The Rooftop Solar Scheme endeavours to harness solar power by installing solar panels on residential rooftops.
    • National Solar Mission (2010): The National Solar Mission stands as a crucial endeavor by both the Indian government and state authorities to foster sustainable development and tackle energy security challenges.
    • SRISTI Scheme (2018): The SRISTI Scheme is formulated to encourage the implementation of rooftop solar power projects in India, promoting sustainability.
    • International Solar Alliance (2015): Formed in 2015, the International Solar Alliance serves as a collaborative platform promoting the adoption of solar energy technologies through member-driven initiatives.
    • Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (2019): Launched by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) in 2019, the PM-KUSUM scheme aims to facilitate the deployment of off-grid solar pumps in rural areas and reduce reliance on the grid in connected regions.

    Conclusion

    • Despite the temporary slowdown, India remains committed to expanding its solar capacity to meet its ambitious renewable energy targets and contribute to global sustainability efforts.