India’s energy security requires a transition towards a diversified, affordable and sustainable energy mix while reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.” Examine. (10 Marks) (GS 3: Indian Economy — Energy Security)

Introduction

Energy security refers to the uninterrupted availability of energy at affordable prices. India faces the challenge of meeting rising energy demand while reducing import dependence and fulfilling its climate commitments. This necessitates a transition towards a diversified, resilient and low-carbon energy ecosystem.

Challenges to India’s energy security

1. Import dependence: Heavy reliance on imported crude oil exposes India to geopolitical disruptions, exchange-rate fluctuations and global price volatility.
   Data: India imports approximately 88% of its crude oil requirements, making energy security vulnerable to external shocks.
2. Rising energy demand: Industrialisation, urbanisation and expanding household consumption are increasing energy requirements.
   Report: IEA identifies India as a major contributor to incremental global energy demand in the coming decades.
3. Coal dependence: Coal continues to dominate electricity generation, creating challenges for decarbonisation and environmental sustainability.
   Data: Coal accounts for approximately three-fourths of India’s electricity generation.
4. Renewable energy intermittency: Solar and wind generation depend on weather conditions, requiring storage and flexible grid infrastructure.
   Example: Solar power generation declines after sunset, necessitating balancing capacity.
5. Geopolitical vulnerabilities: Conflicts and disruptions along international energy supply routes can affect prices and availability.
   Example: Instability in the Strait of Hormuz poses risks to India’s crude oil and LNG supplies.
6. Infrastructure constraints: Inadequate storage, transmission capacity and domestic manufacturing of energy technologies can constrain diversification.
   Example: Limited battery-storage capacity affects large-scale renewable integration.

Strategies to strengthen energy security

1. Diversify energy sources: Expand solar, wind, hydro, nuclear and bioenergy to reduce dependence on conventional fossil fuels.
   Data: India achieved its target of 50% cumulative installed electricity capacity from non-fossil sources in 2025, five years ahead of its 2030 commitment.
2. Strengthen domestic renewable capacity: Promote decentralised solar, rooftop installations and renewable-energy parks.
   Scheme: PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana aims to install rooftop solar systems in one crore households.
3. Develop energy storage infrastructure: Invest in battery storage, pumped-storage hydropower and smart grids to address renewable intermittency.
   Initiative: National Programme on Advanced Chemistry Cell Battery Storage.
4. Promote domestic energy production: Improve exploration, production and recovery of domestic oil and gas resources.
   Initiative: Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP).
5. Improve energy efficiency: Reduce energy intensity across industries, buildings and transportation.
   Scheme: Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) scheme promotes industrial energy efficiency.
6. Strengthen strategic reserves and international partnerships: Expand emergency reserves and diversify import sources to manage geopolitical disruptions.
   Data: India’s Strategic Petroleum Reserves programme has established facilities at Visakhapatnam, Mangaluru and Padur, with a combined existing capacity of approximately 5.33 million tonnes.

Conclusion

India’s energy transition must balance energy availability, affordability, environmental sustainability and strategic autonomy. A diversified energy mix, indigenous technological capabilities, efficient infrastructure and international cooperation are essential for achieving long-term energy security.