The ministry sets an ambitious renewable energy target of 43.3% for 2030, emphasizes battery storage with a capacity of 41.13 GW and pumped storage with a capacity of 18.6 GW

In a significant move towards the widespread use of renewable energy, India’s Ministry of Energy has made it mandatory for each country to gradually increase the percentage of electricity consumption from renewable energy sources. The targets will increase from 24.3% in 2023 to an ambitious 43.3% by 2030. This directive aims to push India towards achieving its climate action targets, as highlighted in the recent NITI Aayog policy paper. The article, authored by Venugopal Mothkoor, Dr. Anjali Jain and Rajnath Ram, delves into state-level planning and the performance requirements needed to achieve these goals.

The centerpiece of this initiative is Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs), which commit distribution companies (DISCOMs) in each state to ensure that a specified portion of their electricity supply comes from renewable sources. The strategy paper highlights the key role of these responsibilities in driving the transition to a more sustainable energy landscape.

The report also provides an in-depth analysis of the storage capacity required to support renewable energy integration into the grid. Using the TIMES-VEDA optimization tool, the study estimated the necessary storage space at a regional level. It forecasts that by 2029–2030 there will be approximately 18.6 GW of pumped storage plants available, which will help balance the variable contribution from renewable energy sources. Additionally, a 5-hour battery energy storage system (BESS) was identified as an important mechanism for further grid balancing.

The total BESS capacity required for 5 hours is estimated at 41.13 GW, which is in addition to the 18.6 GW of pumped storage. Storage demand is divided regionally: the Northern Region needs 17.043 GW, the Southern Region 2.74 GW, the Eastern Region 9.40 GW, the Western Region 11.742 GW, and the Northeast Region needs a modest 0.208 GW.

This comprehensive strategy highlights the complex planning and significant investment needed to transform India’s energy infrastructure towards a more renewable and sustainable future. Full details and implications of this policy can be found in the NITI Aayog report.

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