Why in the News
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has proposed expanding its authority under the Electricity Act, 2003 and seeks recognition as the “Central Government” for all renewable energy matters.
Background
Currently, the Ministry of Power exercises primary control over the Electricity Act, including grid-connected renewable energy. The proposal by MNRE aims to redefine this institutional arrangement.
Key Demands by MNRE
- Policy and Market Design
- Authority to design renewable energy markets
- Power to frame and notify bidding guidelines for renewable projects
- Regulatory Role
- Power to define tariff principles for the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission
- Ability to guide the regulator on renewable energy issues
- Monitoring Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs)
- Oversight of compliance by distribution companies and large consumers
- Addressing weak implementation by states
- Institutional Coordination
- Greater role in regulation-making by the Central Electricity Authority
- Influence over national transmission planning
Current Status of Renewable Energy in India
- Total installed capacity stands at about 520 GW
- Non-fossil capacity is around 272 GW, more than half of total capacity
- Renewable energy contributes about 263 GW
- However, actual electricity generation from non-fossil sources is only about 25 percent
Government Target
- India aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, making efficient governance of the sector critical.
| [2019] In India, which of the following review the independent regulators in sectors like telecommunications, insurance, electricity, etc.? Ad Hoc Committees set up by the Parliament Parliamentary Department Related Standing Committees Finance Commission Financial Sector Legislative Reforms Commission NITI Aayog Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 (b) 1, 3 and 4 (c) 3, 4 and 5 (d) 2 and 5 |
