Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Energy
Why in News?
Recently, CII-EY - India report said that India’s energy security risks are shifting beyond oil and gas to critical minerals, manufacturing capacity, electricity storage and grid infrastructure.
- Shift in Energy Security – India’s energy risks moving beyond oil and gas to critical minerals, manufacturing, storage, and grid infrastructure.
- Mineral Dependence – Fully import‑dependent for lithium, cobalt, nickel, silicon, rare earths, gallium, germanium, platinum group elements.
- Projected needs (2025–2070) – 66 MT copper, 46 MT graphite, 19.5 MT silicon, 11.5 MT nickel.
- Electricity Demand – Per capita consumption rose from 780 kWh (2015–16) to 1,153 kWh (2024–25) and demand is expected to rise further with industrialisation and urbanisation.
Investment Needs
- Energy storage – USD 1.15 trillion (2025–2050), USD 3.3 trillion (2051–2070).
- Transmission/distribution –USD 2 trillion+ long‑term.
- Nuclear capacity – Projected to reach 100 GW by 2047.
- Renewable Energy Progress – India nearing 300 GW non‑fossil capacity, target 500 GW by 2030.
- Rooftop solar under PM Surya Ghar scheme expanding rapidly.
- Manufacturing and Oil Security – Oil remains as important consumption; doubled to 243 MT (FY26).
- Strategic Petroleum Reserve capacity – 11.8 MT (approved).
Vulnerabilities
- Import dependence may cause supply disruptions and geopolitical risks, similar to fossil fuels.
Recommendations
- Accelerate domestic exploration, processing, recycling, and manufacturing.
- Diversify import sources and build strategic partnerships.
Reference
Down to Earth | Renewable Energy
