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Question – Briefly discuss the International Solar Alliance and explain how it can help in tackling the challenges of climate change? – 7 April
Answer:
International Solar Alliance
- The International Solar Alliance is a treaty-based intergovernmental organization of countries endowed with solar energy.
- ISA was founded after India’s initiative. It was jointly launched by India and France on 30 November 2015 in Paris, separated from COP-21 during the United Nations Climate Conference.
- The fifth meeting of the International Steering Committee of the ISA held in New Delhi some time ago was attended by representatives of 121 potential member nations, which are fully or partially located between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn.
- 61 countries associated with the ISA have joined the alliance at this conference, while 32 countries have ratified the Framework Agreement.
Characteristics:
- The International Solar Alliance is an international intergovernmental organization of 121 solar-resource-rich countries, located partially or completely between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn.
- It is headquartered in Gurugram (Haryana).
- The major objectives of the ISA include the global deployment of solar power generation capacity of over 1000 GW and to raise about $ 1000 billion for investment in solar energy by
- As an action-oriented organization, ISA provides support in starting solar projects at the ground level.
- ISA brings solar-rich countries together to consolidate the global demand for solar energy.
Why is an ISA Required?
- As part of the climate change commitment, India has set a target of achieving 40 per cent of its energy needs by renewable energy by the year 2022.
- The executive draft of the ISA makes it clear that the basic objective of the ISA is to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.
- By 2030, enhance international cooperation to facilitate access to clean energy research and technology, including renewable energy, energy efficiency and advanced and cleaner fossil-fuel technology, and promote investment in energy infrastructure and clean energy technology.
- In this conference, the Prime Minister has also introduced a ten-point action plan which underscores the need for this alliance.This action plan includes providing affordable solar technology to all nations, increasing the share of electricity produced from photovoltaic cells in the energy mix, regulating and setting standards, providing guidance for bank creditworthy solar projects and establishing a network of specialty centers.The ISA ensures coordination and enhancement of institutional efforts in this direction.
Future Objectives:
- Efforts are being made by its member countries to set up such a financial system with the help of which a market can be created for the use of inexpensive solar energy technologies.
- For this purpose, these member countries will formulate creative policies that will encourage public and private investment to reduce the cost of solar power projects in developing countries.
- In addition, joint research and development work will also be promoted by member countries to develop appropriate business models, new technology, and equipment, clean and affordable operating costs.
