- The International Solar Alliance (ISA), alternatively known as the International Agency for Solar Policy and Application, comprises 106 nations, with 86 being active members.
- The majority of these countries are located either entirely or partially between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn and are known for abundant sunshine.
- The primary objective of the alliance is to advocate for the efficient utilization of solar energy as a means to reduce dependency on fossil fuels.
- This initiative was initially proposed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and was jointly launched with French President Emmanuel Macron during the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Paris.
OBJECTIVES
- Focus on Solar Energy: The primary objective of the International Solar Alliance is to emphasize the utilization of solar energy as a sustainable and renewable source of power.
- Climate Change Commitment: The establishment of this alliance in Paris underscores the commitment of developing countries, including India, to combat climate change and transition towards a low-carbon growth trajectory.
- Renewable Energy Targets: India has set ambitious targets for renewable energy deployment, including the installation of 175 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2022, with a significant portion allocated to solar energy.
- Emission Reduction Goals: India is committed to reducing emission intensity by 33-35% by 2030, aiming to extend access to solar energy to remote villages and communities while contributing to a cleaner environment.
- Diversification of Energy Sources: India aims to diversify its energy mix by generating 40% of its energy generation capacity from non-fossil sources, including renewables, large hydroelectric projects, and nuclear energy, by 2030, with a focus on international collaboration and cooperation.
ADVANTAGES OF ISA
- Promotion of Clean Energy: Amidst the challenges posed by climate change and pollution from conventional energy sources like coal, the alliance fosters the transition towards cleaner and more sustainable solar energy.
- Continuous Access to Information: The Solar Cyber Centre operated by the alliance operates round-the-clock, providing member nations with access to guidance, information, and financial innovations for solar energy projects.
- Advocacy for Financial Support: The alliance can advocate for financial institutions to allocate funds for solar energy projects, similar to initiatives undertaken by the Reserve Bank of India, enhancing access to financing for renewable energy endeavors.
- Priority Sector Lending: Rooftop solar panel installations are eligible for priority sector lending of up to ten lakh rupees, facilitating easier access to financial resources for solar energy initiatives.
- Leadership in Energy Sector: Active participation in the International Solar Alliance positions India as a leader in the global energy transition, particularly among developing nations blessed with abundant sunlight.
- Enhanced Global Competitiveness: India’s involvement in the alliance strengthens its
ADVANTAGES TO INDIA
International competitiveness and opens up opportunities for global employment in the renewable energy sector.
- Increased International Exposure: By engaging in discussions and initiatives at the international level through the ISA, India broadens its focus beyond domestic concerns, contributing to global energy market analyses and discussions.
- Potential for Funding: Given India’s insufficient solar energy infrastructure and the high costs associated with solar power, participation in the ISA opens avenues for funding to expand capacity and make solar energy economically viable, supporting the nation’s goal of achieving 100 GW of solar power capacity.
- Adoption of Best Practices: Through collaboration within the alliance, India can implement and adopt best practices in renewable energy, fostering advancements in the sector and promoting sustainable development.
ONE SUN ONE WORLD ONE GRID
- The OSOWOG, or One Sun One World One Grid, is geared towards establishing a framework to foster worldwide collaboration and create an interconnected global network of renewable energy resources, with a primary focus on solar energy, that can be easily shared across regions.
- The concept behind OSOWOG is encapsulated in its vision statement, “The Sun Never Sets,” emphasizing the perpetual presence of sunlight at various locations around the world at any given moment.
- Regarded as one of the most ambitious initiatives globally, OSOWOG holds immense significance on a global scale, offering opportunities for equitable sharing of economic benefits derived from renewable energy resources.
- This initiative is being implemented with the support of the World Bank’s technical assistance program, further highlighting its international cooperation and support.
FAQs about the International Solar Alliance (ISA)
1. What is the International Solar Alliance (ISA)?
A: The ISA is a coalition of 106 countries, with 86 active members, primarily located between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn, aiming to promote the efficient utilization of solar energy as an alternative to fossil fuels.
2. Who proposed the establishment of the ISA, and when was it launched?
A: The initiative for the ISA was first presented by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and was jointly launched with French President Emmanuel Macron during the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Paris.
3. What are the main objectives of the ISA?
A: The primary objectives of the ISA include emphasizing the use of solar energy, combating climate change, setting ambitious renewable energy targets, reducing emission intensity, and diversifying energy sources through international cooperation.
4. What are the advantages of the ISA?
A: The ISA promotes the transition to clean energy, provides continuous access to solar energy information, advocates for financial support, facilitates priority sector lending, enhances India’s leadership in the energy sector, and increases international exposure.
5. How does the ISA support India’s renewable energy goals?
A: India’s participation in the ISA opens avenues for funding, enhances global competitiveness, fosters adoption of best practices, and contributes to achieving the nation’s target of 100 GW of solar power capacity.
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