Tag: Policy

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India Launches Bharat ZET Policy Advisory

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India has launched the advisory document titled Bharat Zero Emission Trucking (ZET) Policy Advisory.

The document outlines a comprehensive set of 30 policy interventions to accelerate ZET adoption in India.

These interventions are categorized into five key areas: incentives, regulations, infrastructure, business and financing, and stakeholder-centric initiatives.

Each policy intervention identifies a nodal agency responsible for implementation, a list of key stakeholders, its impact on the sector, and the methodology of policy formulation.

These recommendations will be further refined through extensive stakeholder consultations, including detailed cost-benefit and impact analyses by the concerned ministries, departments, and institutions, according to a press release.

In his opening address, Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor, Government of India, emphasized the importance of ZET for decarbonization and energy security.

He said, “The induction and wider adoption of ZETs require technical expertise and systematic policy interventions to create an enabling techno-socio-economic ecosystem in India.”

Hanif Qureshi, Additional Secretary (Auto), Ministry of Heavy Industries and Sudhendu Sinha, Adviser (Infrastructure Connectivity & E-Mobility), NITI Aayog, highlighted the need for the electrification of trucks. They talked about ways to completely switch to ZETs and achieve 100% ZET sales penetration by 2050 to meet India’s challenging Net Zero 2070 target.

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Is Corporate India Fuelling Climate Change?

Sonal Desai

Is Corporate India to be blamed for recent climate-induced disasters?

This is an edgy query and can lead to a series of furious debates. People from all walks of life will comment on whether corporate India is or is not responsible/partly responsible for the tragedy that has been continuously striking our country.

But that dear reader, is not my intent in posing the question. Ever since the tragedy struck India, I have noticed reactions: 1. Measured 2. Passionate from those affected 3. Dispassionate –corporate India and the layman and 4. Ugly: The politicians.

While I do not expect much from the politicians who are busy playing dirty in the Parliament and the state assembly, it is the common people (who are paying taxes for better infrastructure and amenities) who are the first on the field during rescue operations. Why do local corporates do not participate?

Climate change, respected employers also impacts you! If your factory or office is in a vulnerable terrain, nature’s fury will not exclude you.

I read sustainability, ESG, and BRSR reports in which you, dear corporate detail spending crores of rupees on CSR projects. That is a blessing for India for the initiatives and the impact (yes because you measure the matrix) are promising. Contextually, even if each corporate adopts one of the vulnerable areas I believe that climate change can be prevented to a large extent.

There are siloes of examples of how various corporate entities have adopted villages or clusters of rural areas and are working with the local community in fields such as health, education, infrastructure, and employment. We just need to include ENVIRONMENT and CLIMATE in this repository.

What next?

Bringing everyone to agree on Climate mitigation is crucial. A coordinated effort is required to stop the initiatives in silos and convert them into a collective effort.

It also means including morality as a KPI of your business and especially an essential matrix of ESG reports. Morality, Purpose, and Profit can go hand in hand. This is the need of the hour: SAVE the PLANET, SAVE HUMANITY, HELP PREVENT CLIMATE CHANGE.

Large companies in each domain or sector have ample knowledge of the terrain, the topological factors, and numerous studies by local experts to understand the climatic impact of the project. The impact of large-scale construction on the area or the ecology, deforestation is turning its head toward us. We are feeling the heat as climate-induced heat strokes increase.

Politicians will provide you with the environmental clearance for projects. Will your greed for profits allow you to trample over the environmental issues and crush the last chance to conserve/save Mother Earth?

As an example, I am touching upon the construction sector. Experts have pointed out the direct correlation between unscientific developments in ecology and climate incidents. The Mumbai flooding, and recent Himalayan and Kerala tragedies are a case in point.

Cartelization or contracts are being thrown to cartels and blacklisted companies. This has to stop. The winner may be the lowest bidder, but is the company qualified for the job? Does it have the requisite expertise and clearance to take on the project?

Our take:

And I am sure, accountability and ownership of this scale will benefit not just the brand involved but also involve the stakeholders and community at large. For sure, it will prevent displacement and migration and provide employment opportunities.

By no means is WriteCanvas anti-industrialization. We are an enterprise and can very much relate with the teething troubles of a new project, or the cost a business has to bear to bag a new one.

We do appreciate the contribution of Corporate India in propelling India’s economy and the growth of our country across sectors.

We are of the view that a practical approach involves involving all stakeholders, including companies, investments, technology, and policy, to not only prevent climate disasters but also predict potential ones, thereby reducing their impact.

Remember, we have failed to limit temperature rise to 1.5 degrees of the pre-industrial level, accepting the breach of the 2 degrees threshold of the Paris Agreement.

The fact remains that any growth has to be inclusive, sustainable, and responsible.

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Businesses Must Promote Inclusive Workforce: Survey

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A recent WriteCanvas-ASSOCHAM South survey highlighted the need for organizations to address gender disparities and promote gender diversity across various roles to create more inclusive work environments.

The key findings from the survey include:
  1. Men occupy a significantly higher proportion of leadership positions compared to women across functions and industry segments.
  2. The gender gap in board positions is significant, with men holding 76% of positions and only 24% of female representation, indicating a need for more women to participate in leadership roles.
  3. Male priorities in BoD roles may influence decision-making, impacting organizational practices, policies, and strategies. Encouraging female leadership parity is crucial for building inclusive and efficient governance frameworks.
  4. The gender imbalance in Team Lead positions, with 65% males and 35% females, could significantly affect organizational dynamics, decision-making processes, team culture, and leadership styles.
  5. Female representation is lower at 24%, indicating a lack of gender diversity in leadership roles. This could impact organizational strategies, policies, and practices.
  6. Sectorally, the Law and BFSI segments show a major gender imbalance, with more than 80% males in BOD roles, while Consulting Firms and the IT/ITES sector have balanced representation, albeit still favoring males.
  7. The BFSI and media industries exhibit gender parity in Team Lead positions, while the government sector and IT/ITES show significant gender disparity in leadership roles.

Conversely, the absence of data for the Government sector warrants further action. Understanding the gender composition within this sector is crucial for addressing potential gender disparities and ensuring equal opportunities for both males and females, especially while constituting policies and the DEI push.

Our take:

Time and again, the governments, the UN, and the DEI advocates have argued the need for a balanced workforce. Businesses are not doing anyone a favor if they encourage inclusivity and diversity in the workplace. Instead, they are investing in a workforce that will be more dedicated and committed.

As the Great Place to Work survey also confirms that diverse and inclusive workplaces earn deeper trust and more commitment from their employees.

The research indicates that a positive company culture leads to higher revenue growth, greater innovation readiness, increased talent recruitment, and higher employee retention, as employees trust fair treatment regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or age.

To download, the abbreviated report, please click here: https://writecanvas.in/our-templates/

To access sectoral insights, please email us at [email protected].

 

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How is India dealing with Climate Change?

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Climate change and global warming have been the reigning topics of discussion in India the past few months.

India, the world’s third-largest carbon dioxide emitter, is grappling with the impacts of climate change.

A new report reveals that a large majority of Indians are concerned about various environmental hazards, including agricultural pests, diseases, heat waves, droughts, air pollution, famines, cyclones, and floods.

• About half of Indians believe they are already being harmed by global warming (53%).
• Many fear dangerous impacts such as heat waves, species extinctions, droughts, and food shortages.
• More than a third are considering or moving due to weather events.
• However, many face difficulties due to poor access to clean water, electricity disruptions, and limited air conditioners.

The impact of global warming:

Most Indians believe global warming is primarily human-caused.

The majority of Indians, 85%, have personally experienced the effects of global warming

The majority of respondents (71% and 76%) believe that global warming significantly impacts them.

92% of respondents consider it to be extremely important (38%), very important (35%), or somewhat important (20%).

52% of respondents believe that global warnings are primarily caused by natural environmental changes.

98% of people are willing to join a community emergency response team.

75% of households anticipate that it will take several months or more for them to recover from severe floods or droughts..

About one in three people have moved or considered moving because of weather-related disasters .

Most people in India also believe that global warming affects their local weather and monsoons.

The policy push:

Most people in India support policies to address environmental problems, including training people for renewable energy jobs, teaching all Indians about global warming, funding women’s groups.

93% of people are willing to join a community emergency response team.

Only 10% believe the government is currently doing the right amount. 61% believe the government should do more.

93% of Indians are willing to make significant changes to protect the environment, including buying energy-efficient appliances and electric vehicles.

The community bond:

India’s population is highly vulnerable to climate change impacts. About two in three people receive advanced warnings about extreme weather events, but about one in three do not.

A large majority of Indians are confident that their family and friends can help their local community prepare for and respond to these events.

Many people are already engaged or willing to engage in collective preparedness actions

Indigenous communities, preserving or expanding forested areas, and requiring new buildings to waste less water and energy.

The way forward:

India’s climate action plan aims to reduce emissions by 33-35% by 2030, generate 40% renewable energy, and increase forest cover. With rapid solar capacity growth, it needs $10.1 trillion in investments to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070. Education and communication strategies are crucial.

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Policy Push Must Expedite Domestic Production, Attract Investors

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A panel discussion highlighted the importance of policy push, regulatory certainty, financing frameworks, and ESG standards to attract investors.

The cluster-based strategy was emphasized for promoting synergies in the extraction, refining, and end-use of minerals, particularly in low-carbon technologies.

Panelists highlighted the facilitation services provided by organizations like Invest India and the Industrial Promotion and Investment Corporation of Odisha ( IPICOL). These organizations aid in establishing processing and beneficiation capabilities in India.

Invest India introduced the Critical Mineral Processing opportunity in India, outlining the country’s fiscal and non-fiscal incentives. Mining states like Odisha and Andhra Pradesh spoke about incentives offered to the sector. They highlighted the country’s growth trajectory and state-level initiatives to support infrastructure.

Dr. Veena Kumari Dermal, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Mines, highlighted the summit’s key takeaways and future directions. She emphasized domestic and international efforts in securing the critical mineral supply chain. She discussed India’s processing technologies for these minerals and referred to amendments to offshore mining regulations.

The ‘Critical Minerals Summit: Enhancing Beneficiation and Processing Capabilities‘ summit concluded with discussions on strategic cooperation and policy insights to advance India’s agenda for critical minerals.

The summit aimed to provide government and industry stakeholders with the necessary knowledge, connections, and tools to expedite India’s domestic production of critical minerals.

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How has the Renewable Energy Sector Metamorphosed in India?

Sonal Desai

Renewable energy is metamorphosing India’s energy landscape.

Modhera–an Indian village in Northern Gujarat, largely famous for the Sun Temple, recently entered the global league to be the world’s first solar-powered village. 

The village has installed 1,300 rooftop solar systems and a ground-mounted solar power plant, utilizing the first grid-connected renewable energy system, battery, energy, and storage system (BESS), resulting in a net renewable energy model and saving 60-100% on electricity bills.

Similarly, the Diu Smart City has become the first city to run on 100% renewable energy during the daytime, generating 1.3 MW annually. The city has developed a 9 MW solar park and solar panels on 79 government buildings, saving 13,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually. Power tariffs in residential categories have been reduced significantly over the last few years. 

These two instances are paving the way for conversations around renewable energy adoption in the country—a segment that will play a key role in pivoting India to its ambition of becoming a $5 trillion economy and the world’s third-largest in the next few years!

India aims for net-zero carbon emissions by 2070, 50% renewable power by 2030, and a 45% reduction in economic carbon intensity by the end of the decade. It plans 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, including 50 solar parks.

Challenges:
  1. India aims to reach 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, with 40-50 GW over time. However, there are gaps in transmission and substation capacities, which must catch up, despite the bidding trajectory being set.2. Coal replacement may generate waste.3. Lack of clarity about the end-of-life recycling strategies for wind turbines and solar PVs.
Opportunities:

India is the world’s third-largest energy consumer.

According to the REN21 Renewables 2022 Global Status Report, India ranks fourth in the world for installed capacity of renewable energy (including large hydro), fourth for wind power, and fourth for solar power. The nation has increased its target to 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based energy by 2030 at COP26. Under the Panchamrit, this has been a crucial commitment. This is the biggest renewable energy expansion plan in the world.

India, the fourth-largest global renewable power capacity addition, has achieved 40% of its installed electric capacity from non-fossil fuels by November 2021, ranking fifth in solar and fourth in wind power capacity.

India’s installed non-fossil fuel capacity has grown by 396% in the last 8.5 years, exceeding 179.57 GW. Renewable energy additions reached 9.83% in 2022, with India’s solar energy capacity increasing thirty times in nine years. Since 2014, renewable energy capacity has increased by 128%.

Solar front-ending RE segment in India:

Solar is frontending the renewable energy adoption in the country at present driven by favorable policies, a cohesive solar ecosystem, and local manufacturing. Wind energy, thermal, hydropower, and thermal energy are also gaining ground. 

The union government too is providing a boost as is evident from the announcements in the Union Budget over the last few years:

A few highlights from Union Budget 2023 evidence the government’s commitment:

  • With an additional $36 million in funding, the National Hydrogen Mission will produce 5 MMT by 2030, with a $2.4 billion budget.
  • Battery Energy Storage Systems with 4 GWh Capability Assisted by Viability Gap Funding
  • Pumped Storage Projects have been given a boost in preparation for the formulation of a thorough framework.
  • $1.02/2.5 billion in Central Sector Funding for 13 GW of Renewable Energy from Ladakh through ISTS Infrastructure

                                                                               Installed capacity for Renewables:

                                                                                       Wind power: 44.73 GW

Solar Power: 73.31 GW

Biomass/Cogeneration: 10.2 GW

Small Hydro Power: 4.98 GW

Waste To Energy: 0.58 GW

Large Hydro: 46.88 GW

Favorable policy: 

The National Designated Authority for the Implementation of the Paris Agreement (NDAIAPA) has assigned renewable energy activities/policies for trading carbon credits under the Article 6.2 mechanism, including renewable energy with storage, solar thermal power, off-shore wind, and green hydrogen.

The Union Cabinet has approved the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for High-Efficiency Solar PV Modules for India’s Manufacturing Capabilities and Exports, Atma Nirbhar Bharat. The program aims to create 30,000 direct jobs, replace imports with INR 17,500 Cr annually, and encourage research and development for increased efficiency of solar PV modules. The second phase, starting in September 2022, is expected to add 65 GW of manufacturing capacity.

India’s revised NDC targets aim for 50% non-fossil energy capacity by 2030, 45% emission intensity reduction by 2070, and Net Zero by 2070. Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) is a key strategy for decarbonization in hard-to-abate sectors. Using CCUS technology can reduce imports and build an Atma Nirbhar Indian India aims for 5% biodiesel blending by 2030, with demand expected to grow by 30% to 200 billion liters by 2028, Renewable diesel and ethanol will account for two-thirds of this growth, and the rest will be divided among biodiesel and bio-jet fuel. economy, generating 8-10 million FTE job opportunities.

The Central government has set a goal of achieving 50% ethanol blending by 2030 and advanced its 20 percent blending target to 2025.

Hybrid: The Union government has set an ambitious target of achieving 175 GigaWatt (GW) of installed capacity from renewable energy sources by 2022, which includes 100 GW of solar and 60 GW of wind power capacity.

For instance, AHEJOL, a subsidiary of Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL), has commissioned a 390 MW wind-solar hybrid power plant in Rajasthan. This plant in Jaisalmer is the first ever wind and solar hybrid power generation plant in India.

Green jobs: 

A recent report by Airswift shows that 88% of renewable energy employees are considering a change in employment due to professional advancement opportunities and general interest in the sector. 38% would switch to a different energy sector, with power being the preferred choice.

Job profiles advertised include policy support, EPC, SCADA, and technology integration; renewable energy consultancy; project management, QA/QC Manager; solar engineer; wind farm project manager; wind turbine Technician; among others. 

According to Adrian Smith, Worley’s Executive Group Director of Transformation, “A parallel intersection of skills between power and renewables is being created by growing electric grid interconnections with renewables.” Digitalization of renewable energy is accelerating and overlapping with other industries, like technology.

For example, Waaree Energies recently appointed Dr. Avadhut Parab, one of the most renowned and experienced CIOs in India, as its CIO. Professionally, Dr Parab who was the CIO for the Parle Group and has served Wockhardt Ltd, joins Waaree Energies to provide the much-needed technology guidance in the evolving solar manufacturing and EPC space.

Our take:

The renewable energy sector is marching ahead. We are witnessing a positive growth trajectory. Favorable policies coupled with investments from the public and private sectors are fuelling the uptake. But the segment is lagging in adequate infrastructure, concerns about recycling of end-of-life products, and a fear of stagnation as is evident in waning interest in the green bonds–of which RE forms a major crux. The leading players must come together and address the issue by sharing best practices, SOPs, and case studies with their peers.

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Policy for Adoption of Green Hydrogen for Renewable Energy

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The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is working on the modalities of a new policy to promote the use of green hydrogen to support round-the-clock electricity.

The new policy is a part of the government’s thrust towards promoting increased adoption of renewable energy and use of green hydrogen as envisaged in the National Green Hydrogen Mission. 

The Union Minister for Power and New and Renewable Energy R. K. Singh chaired the meeting regarding using green hydrogen with solar and wind energy. 

Mr Singh has asked the officials to draft scheme guidelines for the green hydrogen and power sector, emphasizing the need for round-the-clock renewable energy to reduce costs and make it affordable.

Officials discussed green hydrogen storage options for round-the-clock and peak power demand. Another area of focus was government support mechanisms like a contract for difference methodology (CDM), based on market price differences and agreed strike prices.

 

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Climate Action: The Power of One

Renjini Liza Varghese

The climate crisis is looming; climate action is the need of the hour. It is casting darker shadows that may be impossible to reverse. The headlines scream of melting glaciers, rising sea levels, and unprecedented heat waves, painting a picture of a future dictated by vast, systemic forces beyond our control. But amidst this despair, a quiet truth is emerging: change starts with us.

While pushing for policy changes and holding corporations accountable for climate action is crucial, it is essential to recognize the power of individual action. Every conscious choice, every deliberate step towards sustainability, has a ripple effect. It influences the course of a future in which our planet thrives.

Introspection, the First Step:

Let’s begin by turning the spotlight inward. Take a moment to honestly assess your lifestyle. How much energy do you consume? What kind of waste do you generate? Do single-use plastics litter your life, or do you embrace reusable alternatives? Does your wardrobe scream fast fashion?

This self-awareness isn’t about guilt; it’s about empowerment.

Small steps can lead to big impacts. Now, let’s ignite that determination.

Here are seven individual actions that have the potential to be a potent force for change:

i. Reduce, reuse, recycle: Swap plastic bags with reusable and recyclable options. Minimize waste by composting. Choose products with minimal packaging.

ii. Transportation: The power of two – walk, use a bicycle or public transport. Seemingly small choices, multiplied by millions, translate into into huge gains.

iii. Conscientious consumer: Invest in quality, long-lasting products that minimize waste.

iv. Energy efficiency: Switch to LED bulbs, unplug unused appliances, and invest in energy-efficient gadgets.

v. Kitchen revolution: Opt for local, seasonal produce, embrace plant-based meals, and reduce food waste. Every conscious bite counts.

vi. The power of your wallet: Support eco-friendly businesses that prioritize sustainability. Every purchase is a vote for the future you want to see.

vii. Be the change: Share your sustainable practices, and educate others about the climate crisis. Remember, you are not alone – a network of like-minded individuals, can illuminate the path towards a brighter future.

Beyond individual action:

The path to a sustainable future may seem daunting, but it’s paved with the power of individual action.

Let us not underestimate the power of individual action. Let’s rise to the challenge, not with despair, but with the unwavering belief that together, one by one, we can change the world. Remember, the journey towards a sustainable future begins with a single step, and that step starts with you. Each conscious choice we make, each step towards sustainability, is a pebble paving the path to a greener future.

What ripple effect do you want to create in the vast ocean of change? The choice is yours the power is in your hands!!!!

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Green hydrogen storage can reduce RE cost to Rs 6/unit

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The Union Minister for Power and New & Renewable Energy, Mr. R. K. Singh has said that round-the-clock renewable energy will cost about Rs. 6 per unit if green hydrogen is used for storage.

Speaking at the special ministerial session of the Fourth International Conference & Exhibition on Clean Energy in New Delhi, Mr. Singh said that the cost of green hydrogen would be cheapest in India and that it would become a viable energy storage alternative.

“”Green hydrogen is less expensive than gas and battery-based energy storage technologies. We have developed a pilot bid for approximately 100 MW that we hope will serve as the standard. All supply chain issues, including the availability of lithium-ion batteries, will be resolved once we are able to use green hydrogen for our energy needs. Green hydrogen will be produced and used as storage. If our cost for 24/7 renewable energy comes to Rs. 6 per unit—below the recent average price of power in the energy exchange of Rs. 8—we will be profitable. India has the potential to become a global champion in renewable energy,” he said.

Enablement:

1. Policy:
The minister stated that the government is considering allowing the industry to obtain carbon credits for green hydrogen and green ammonia that are exported from India. He informed that the basic legal framework for the carbon market to provide competitive advantage to the industry.

“We have been leading with policy papers, rules and regulations, opening new doors. We came with Green Open Access Rules, where we have given right for anybody to set up capacity anywhere and transfer it to wherever they want. I have written to all industry captains to switch over from thermal to renewables, this shift will also bring down price of energy,” he said.

2. Manufacturing:
India is emerging as a manufacturing powerhouse of renewable energy, said the minister.

“Around 88,000 MW renewable energy capacity is under construction and our plan is to add 50,000 MW of renewable energy capacity every year. We are already emerging as an exporter. The world will come to rely on us. So, all those who are setting up capacity have made a good bet. At the same time, we need to keep ourselves at the leading edge of technology,” Mr Singh said.

“We need energy demand as fast as possible to meet this demand. We will make the electricity required for our growth. If our price for round-the-clock renewable energy is anything to go by, then we will not have to go the thermal way, we will adopt the renewable path. About 42% of our capacity is from renewable sources already.”

3. Investments:

Mr Singh noted that this is the era of huge growth for the renewable energy.

Stating that more countries and corporates are investing in the renewable energy sector in the country, he said, “UAE wants to invest here. Getting investment for green transition is not an issue, since we have de-risked the system and made the whole system transparent. Each generator’s power bills are up-to-date. Legacy dues of discoms have been reduced to less than half, and this too will be wiped out in next 2 – 3 years. Every genco is now profitable. AT&C losses have come down and the system is totally viable now. Everything has been made conditional on prudential norms.”

4. National Green Hydrogen Mission:
The minister informed that 5.8 million tons of green hydrogen at various stages of capacity is already being set up, under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

“We will be the biggest exporter since our green hydrogen and green ammonia cost is going to be the lowest in the world. And we will come up with another bid for grid scale storage. Future Renewable Energy Purchase Obligations are going to be issued under the revised Energy Conservation Act.”

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6 key highlights from the new ESS framework

Sonal Desai

The Ministry of Power has released a detailed framework to reshape the nation’s energy sector, to boost energy storage systems (ESS).

The blueprint includes measures like financial incentives and regulatory revisions to foster ESS. The guidelines also provide a risk-sharing framework for stakeholders involved in energy storage procurement.

Here are the six key highlights from the framework:

1. VGF and Green funds:
One of the most significant proposals within the framework is the introduction of the Viability Gap Funding (VGP). The VGP is aimed at supporting battery energy storage systems (BESS) projects by reducing the levelized cost of storage. The VGF could be up to 40% of the project’s capital cost, with the project commissioned within 18-24 months. This would make BESS a viable option for peak power management and reduce costs for large-scale capacity expansion.

The government can accelerate the establishment of the ESS industry through Concessional Green Finance, sovereign Green Bonds, and long-term loans from financial institutions like PFC, REC, and IREDA, according to the framework.

2. Green jobs:
India’s energy demand surge and shift towards renewable energy sources present opportunities for emerging ESS technologies.

Domestic innovation and manufacturing can stimulate job creation, economic growth, and position India as a global leader in sustainable and low-carbon energy systems.

A Saur Energy report estimates that rapid transition to clean energy could create 1.5 crore new jobs by 2025 from the business as usual scenario.

3. Collaboration and GTM:
Investing in R&D of ESS technologies can enhance efficiency and make them cost-effective for commercial use. Collaboration between academia and industry, a nodal agency, and training institutes can help address the need for long-term research and development.

The Central government plans to allow energy storage systems (ESS) developers and agencies to offer various market-based products, including spot energy markets, capacity markets, and storage. The government also plans to introduce rules for Time of Day Tariff to incentivize ESS adoption. The government may create a PLI Scheme for ESS, issue an approved list of models and manufacturers, and establish a pilot scheme for demonstration projects. Assistance from the Power System Development Fund may be provided for two pilot ESS projects.

4. Energy security:
The Indian Ministry of Power has released guidelines to promote the growth of Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs) and enhance energy security. The guidelines include transparent site selection criteria, self-identification of off-river sites, market reforms, concessionary government land, exemption from free power obligations, rationalization of environmental clearances, and depleted use of mines.

For example, for projects up to 200 MW and for projects over 200 MW, the Central Government is offering budgetary support, including PSPs up to Rs 1.5 crore/MW and up to Rs 1 crore/MW.

5. Storage:
To encourage the best development, the Central Government is promoting a variety of established and developing Energy Storage (ESS) technologies.

To assist utilities, purchasers, and developers in creating ESS projects for the Indian power sector that are both economically feasible and environmentally sustainable, they may announce technology-agnostic bidding guidelines for LDES, SDES, and ancillary services. Both per megawatt hour and composite tariffs may be used in the bidding process.

In addition to facilitating connectivity to intra-state transmission and distribution systems, the Central Electricity Authority and Central Transmission Utility may give priority to connecting Energy Storage Systems (ESS) to the closest Inter State Transmission (ISTS).

6. Circular economy:
To move from a linear to a circular economy, the end-of-life management plan for end-of-life, ESS projects can be included in the bid documents.

By collaborating with businesses that specialize in recycling used batteries, manufacturers can encourage battery reuse and reduce waste. E-waste collection can be facilitated by specialized waste management facilities, and producers now have extended producer responsibility due to the Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022.

Standard operating procedures and a mechanism for reusing ESS parts can be established. It is possible to address environmental issues and guarantee regulatory compliance. Mines that have been abandoned can be converted to hydro storage facilities for PSP development.

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Dusting the impact of climate change on Mumbai

Sonal Desai

Three dust storms in a span of 30 days
Unseasonal rains
Destruction of seasonal crops
Dust particles in the air
Rising cases of viral fever
Blatant tree felling
Unplanned urban infrastructure
Unprecedented heat in February

Readers, you can add to the list.

The impact of climate change has just raised its ugly fang in the commercial capital of India!

Mumbai has witnessed three dust-storms in the last month. The main reason for the the dust-storms was the dust winds that blew from southern Pakistan and the Arabian Sea. It is also a clear indication of the conflict between man and nature.

Alarm bells?
While the current developments ring an alarm bell and are a warning for Mumbaikars to take note of rapid developments in our city. Do not get me wrong. I completely support urban infrastructure because I have witnessed first-hand the positive role it plays in the day-to-day lives of Mumbaikars. Take the Metro network for example or the expanding railway network.

All the same, declining AQI, rising sea levels, heatwaves and dust-storms too are a reality—monsters we have to face, whether we like it or not. Turning our heads away from the problem cannot suffice. We cannot allow natural disasters to rule our lives. We do deal with one every monsoon—but the heavy downpour and water logging is not a result of climate change—but a manmade disaster led by arrogance, ignorance and shoddy work.

And yet, heatwaves and drastic changes in temperatures are clear indicators of how carbon emissions, greenhouse gases are adding to climate change and impacting not just the human lives, but marine lives and biodiversity as well.

The fix:
The present fix needs collective action. At its end, the government has set a target to make Mumbai Net Zero by 2050—20 years ahead of the national goal!

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)—our watchguard too has developed a policy document: Towards a Climate Resilient Mumbai as part of the Mumbai Climate Action Plan (MCAP).

The government and the city administration have the right intent. The target is ambitious, but achievable. Urban infrastructure will continue to expand as the city embraces more migrants and integrates them into the mainstream. Our social fabric is being stretched to the limit, is shrinking, but will never break!

I love this chaos that gives us our distinctive character. But what am I doing for my city? All it takes are small deeds. For instance, setting a timer for the AC; minimizing the use of plastic and reuse or recycle it wherever possible, e-waste and waster conservation. These are individual deeds. I want to contribute to all endeavors that retain the old flavor of Amchi Mumbai and at the same time, am excited to see what the futuristic Mumbai looks like.

BUT NOT AT THE COST OF HER PEOPLE AND HER SWABHIMAAN!!!

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