Net-Zero refers to the concept of balancing emitted greenhouse gases with an equivalent amount of carbon removal or offsetting from the atmosphere. The goal is to achieve a state where no more carbon is emitted than is removed, thereby stabilizing global temperatures.
India's pursuit of Net-Zero is driven by the need to combat climate change, reduce pollution levels, ensure energy security, and meet commitments under international agreements such as the Paris Agreement. This goal is vital for sustainable development and protecting the environment for future generations.
India has set the year 2070 as its target to achieve Net-Zero emissions. This timeline aligns with global efforts aimed at mitigating the impacts of climate change and transitioning to more sustainable energy practices.
Despite the shift towards cleaner energy sources, coal is anticipated to remain a significant component of India’s energy mix for the next two decades. It serves as a critical backbone of the Indian energy system due to its current roles in power generation and various industrial processes.
Nuclear power plays an essential role in India’s strategy for achieving Net-Zero emissions. It provides a reliable, low-carbon source of baseload power, which is crucial for decreasing reliance on fossil fuels and facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources.
The transition to renewable energy faces several challenges, including the intermittent nature of solar and wind power. This necessitates advancements in energy storage solutions, grid infrastructure upgrades, and maintaining a stable energy supply. Significant investments are required to overcome technological and regulatory barriers.
To achieve Net-Zero by 2070, India will need substantial investments estimated between Rs 150-200 lakh crore (approximately US$ 2-2.5 trillion or US$ 40-50 billion annually). A large portion of these financial resources must originate from international sources.
Electrifying end-use sectors such as transportation, heating, and industry is vital for reducing fossil fuel dependence. This transition is facilitated by substituting fossil fuels with electricity generated from renewable or nuclear sources, significantly decreasing emissions and enhancing energy efficiency.
CCS technologies are crucial for capturing carbon dioxide emissions from sources like power plants and industrial processes. By storing it underground or utilizing it in various products, CCS helps offset emissions from sectors where direct reductions are challenging.
By 2070, India’s emissions are projected to range between 0.56 btCO2 and 1.0 btCO2. The focus will be on decreasing emissions intensity and enhancing carbon sequestration through forestry and other methods to meet the Net-Zero targets. Achieving this goal is a complex challenge that requires cross-sectoral cooperation, significant technological advancements, and large-scale investments.
Q1. What is the main goal of India's Net-Zero target?
Answer: The main goal of India's Net-Zero target is to balance greenhouse gas emissions with carbon removal to combat climate change and promote sustainable development by 2070.
Q2. How is renewable energy crucial for India's Net-Zero ambitions?
Answer: Renewable energy is essential for India's Net-Zero ambitions as it reduces reliance on fossil fuels and lowers carbon emissions, supporting a sustainable energy future.
Q3. What is the significance of the Paris Agreement for India?
Answer: The Paris Agreement is significant for India as it sets international commitments for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, guiding India's policies and efforts toward achieving Net-Zero.
Q4. What role do international investments play in India's energy transition?
Answer: International investments are critical for India's energy transition, providing the necessary financial resources to develop renewable energy infrastructure and technologies for achieving Net-Zero.
Q5. Why is carbon capture technology important for the environment?
Answer: Carbon capture technology is important as it mitigates emissions from hard-to-decarbonize sectors, thus playing a vital role in the overall strategy for achieving Net-Zero emissions.
Question 1: What is Net-Zero?
A) Emissions are higher than carbon removal
B) Balancing emitted gases with carbon removal
C) Complete elimination of emissions
D) Emissions only from fossil fuels
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: What year has India set for achieving Net-Zero emissions?
A) 2030
B) 2050
C) 2070
D) 2100
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: Which energy source is projected to remain significant in India's energy mix?
A) Solar
B) Wind
C) Coal
D) Hydro
Correct Answer: C
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