Context:
In 2024,India overtook Germany to become the third-largest producer of electricity from wind and solar energy, according to Ember’s Global Electricity Review.
Global Electricity Review:
- Released By – Ember, a global energy think tank.
- Purpose – To accelerate the transition to clean energy through data and policy insights.
- Focus Areas – Examines electricity generation, weather impacts, and capacity data.
Global Trends in Electricity Generation:
- Wind and Solar – Generated 15% of global electricity in 2024.
- Solar remained the largest source of new electricity for the 3rd consecutive year
- Low-Carbon Sources – Combined low-carbon sources (renewables + nuclear) contributed 40.9%of global electricity.
- Crossed the 40% threshold for the 1st time since the 1940s.
- Solar Power – Solar has been thefastest-growing power source globally for 20 years.
- Its share in global electricity doubled in just 3 years, reaching 6.9%.
India’s Performance:
- Wind and solar accounted for 10% of India’s total electricity output.
- Overall, clean energy (including hydro) contributed 22% of India’s electricity, with hydropower alone providing 8%.
- Solar Power Growth –
- India’s solar contribution doubled since 2021, reaching 7% of total electricity.
- Ranked as the 3rd -largest solar market after China and the US.
Source: ET
Previous Year Question
According to India’s National Policy on Biofuels, which of the following can be used as raw materials for the production of biofuels?
1. Cassava
2. Damaged wheat grains
3. Groundnut seeds
4. Horse gram
5. Rotten potatoes
6. Sugar beet
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2020 Prelims]
(a) 1, 2, 5 and 6 only
(b) 1, 3, 4 and 6 only
(c) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6
Answer: (a)