In this piece written to mark Global Wind Day, Vishnu Mohan Rao, Senior Researcher at CAG discusses the potential that wind energy holds in reshaping countries’ energy systems, and how policies and technology must work together to decarbonise economies.
The relationship between India's progress towards achieving its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through our commitments to energy transition is multifaceted and complex. As India stands at the forefront of progress during its G20 presidency, there is no time like now to demonstrate to other nations how momentum during transition can be accomplished while navigating challenges such as renewable energy intermittency, substantial capital needs, and the social implications of moving away from fossil fuels.
India’s G20 presidency comes at both opportune and challenging times from an energy transition perspective. India has committed to moving away from its traditional dependence on fossil fuels and embracing renewable energy sources. However, this transition needs to be just and balanced; and it is not just about installing solar panels and wind turbines. It needs to provide uninterrupted and quality power to all citizens while managing the intermittency of renewable energy sources.
A perception survey by CAG that reveals the experiences of people living in the vicinity of Thoothukudi's industries with respect to the environmental degradation from air, water and soil pollution; and the subsequent harmful consequences on human health. The study also analyses residents' perceptions of the changes brought upon their lives by industrial development.