Green Energy Transition in India

India is undergoing a massive transformation in the power sector. The country is on track to achieve 70% round-the-clock (RTC) clean electricity for commercial and industrial users by 2030.

This development marks a key milestone in the Green Energy Transition in India and is highly relevant for SSC aspirants preparing for topics related to climate policy, energy infrastructure, and sustainable development goals.

What is Round-the-Clock Clean Electricity?

Round-the-clock renewable power solutions refer to the ability to supply clean electricity 24/7 by matching every hour of consumption with zero-carbon sources like solar power, wind energy, and battery storage systems.

Unlike annual renewable energy certificates, RTC ensures real-time decarbonisation of the electric grid. This approach is central to the ongoing Green Energy Transition in India and supports key climate objectives.

Why Is It Important for India?

The Green Energy Transition in India is aligned with the national goal of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil energy sources by 2030. According to a recent report by TransitionZero, deploying 52 GW of RTC clean electricity can meet 5% of India’s projected national electricity demand and save nearly ₹9,000 crore ($1 billion) annually.

This transition is not only environmentally crucial but also economically strategic. The cost of carbon abatement under RTC models is almost three times lower than traditional annual clean energy matching. This makes it a highly cost-efficient model of achieving a carbon-neutral energy economy.

Who Benefits from RTC Clean Energy?

Industries that require 24/7 uninterrupted electricity, such as data centres and heavy manufacturing, will benefit immensely. Maharashtra, home to India’s largest data centre hub, is particularly well-positioned due to its rising demand and exposure to climate risks.

By adopting RTC solutions, India can ensure affordable green energy for businesses, support clean energy adoption, and deliver a stable supply from sustainable energy sources. These outcomes are essential for a successful Green Energy Transition in India.

The Role of Battery and Energy Storage

A core pillar of the Green Energy Transition in India is the deployment of battery energy storage systems. Every megawatt of solar capacity used in the RTC supply requires nearly 2 MWh of battery storage to ensure uninterrupted availability. Currently, 4-hour lithium-ion batteries are the most viable solution due to falling costs and widespread availability.

Although long-duration energy storage (LDES) could offer extended flexibility, its high cost keeps it commercially limited. Therefore, pairing solar power with battery storage remains the most effective solution for stabilizing the clean power supply.

Grid Planning and Market Impacts

Proper grid planning is vital to manage India’s transition to green energy. The Green Energy Transition in India promotes least-cost grid planning, helping utilities avoid market pitfalls like those seen in Europe, where oversupply of renewables reduced profitability and weakened PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) capture rates.

Government incentives for clean energy and a market-friendly regulatory environment are necessary to support long-term investment in RTC models. This strategy supports a thriving ecosystem for wind-solar hybrid systems, clean electricity, and non-fossil energy sources.

Policy Support and International Alignment

As the Green Energy Transition in India progresses, it aligns with global standards like the revised Greenhouse Gas Protocol, which now encourages hourly emissions tracking under Scope 2. This is particularly useful for companies focused on ESG compliance.

Clean energy policies for Indian industries are also under development to support the real-time use of green electricity. These changes further advance India’s roadmap to clean energy and demonstrate how India is phasing out fossil fuels while building a resilient and future-ready power sector.

Relevance for SSC Exams

This topic is highly relevant for SSC CGL, SSC CHSL, SSC MTS, and other competitive exams under sections like General Awareness, Environment, and Science & Technology. Key points SSC aspirants should focus on include:

• India aims to achieve 70% RTC clean electricity by 2030

• The shift supports the Green Energy Transition in India

• RTC reduces emissions more effectively than annual matching

• Annual cost savings of ₹9,000 crore for the grid

• Key technologies: Solar power, wind energy, battery storage

• Supports India’s net-zero carbon emission strategy

Final Thoughts

The Green Energy Transition in India marks a turning point in the nation's journey toward sustainable and resilient growth. With a strong push for clean electricity, backed by technologies like solar power, wind energy, and battery storage, India is setting a global example in responsible energy development.

The shift to round-the-clock renewable power solutions not only helps combat climate change but also ensures affordable green energy for businesses and industries.

For SSC aspirants, understanding this transformation is crucial, as it covers key topics in environment, policy, and infrastructure. As India accelerates its transition to green electricity the nation's future looks cleaner, stronger, and more self-reliant.