Vasundhara's Beloved Dawalan: Energy Transition: What Should Gujarat Do About This Issue?

Gujarat and Rajasthan, two of the top states on energy issues, are moving forward in leaps and bounds, which can accelerate the reform process in these states' policies, and both can play a central role in India's energy transition. Recently, this conclusion has been revealed in a new note by the 'Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis' (IEEFA). Importantly, Rajasthan currently does not have a high growing green tariff, Gujarat has the highest. Both states need to do proper studies. Both states their progressive policies have made them powerhouses in the region. Along with this, measures including implementing green tariffs, integrating green budgeting practices, setting up dedicated infrastructure funds, promoting distributed renewable energy, modernizing the grid and developing storage solutions will help both states advance India's energy transition. will do With solar distributed capacity in Rajasthan and Gujarat accounting for about seven percent and 15 percent of the total renewable energy (including large hydro) capacity, respectively, there is still significant potential. Both states should step up their efforts to promote Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE). A multi-pronged approach is essential to accelerate the renewable energy transition in Gujarat and Rajasthan. These include implementing strategic measures, increasing financial resources, improving market dynamics and supporting effective governance. Co-author of the note and IEEFA South Asia Director Vibhuti Garg says, 'India's energy transition requires states to make a concerted effort to strengthen renewable energy initiatives. In states where the energy transition is slow, efforts need to be stepped up. Even leading states in the region like Rajasthan and Gujarat should continue to take stock and take corrective measures to ensure that they do not lose their momentum. By adopting the right strategies, states like Rajasthan and Gujarat can effectively drive the transition to a sustainable energy future, achieving their renewable energy goals while promoting economic growth and environmental sustainability.' According to Garg, the two states have also recommended setting up dedicated infrastructure funds designed to finance renewable energy projects. 'These funds can provide the capital required for large-scale investments. Enables states to effectively implement ambitious renewable energy targets. Tanya Rana, energy analyst, IEEFA and co-author of the note, says, 'By enabling consumers to acquire renewable energy at a premium, Rajasthan can drive demand for renewable energy. So that more investments in renewable energy infrastructure can also be encouraged without burdening consumers. To ensure that these prices do not deter potential consumers, Gujarat should focus on improving its regulatory framework. By reducing reliance on centralized power plants, promoting DRE will help both states meet their renewable energy targets while reducing pollution, stimulating economic growth with job creation opportunities.' The note recommends that both states integrate green budgets into their fiscal planning. Hence, the green budget will help Rajasthan and Gujarat prioritize investments in renewable energy and green technologies. Indo-Pak. Environmental fight on the border A small village in Rajasthan is working differently to reduce the effects of global warming through a community-based initiative. About four years ago, a public nursery named 'Shaheed Bhagat Singh Family Forestry' was started. The nursery established at Chak 12 TK village of Risingnagar taluka of Anupgan district is supplying to Rajasthan, Punjab and Haryana. After distributing more than two lakh saplings in three states, the nursery has now produced 33,000 saplings. This is a collective effort of about 100 households in the village; It promotes indigenous saplings and these are distributed free of charge. The nursery mainly grows indigenous species like Pilu, Khijdo, Kumat, Gunda and Rohida. Which is very rare in both private and forest department government nurseries. As governments around the world scramble to find solutions to the challenges posed by climate change, this village of less than 100 houses, about 20 kilometers from the India-Pakistan border, has been at the forefront of environmental conservation. This initiative is a testament to how small communities can make a significant environmental difference. Family Forestry, which was the brainchild of Professor Shyam Sundar Jayani. It contains the noble idea of ​​including trees as green members of the family. The initiative emphasizes the integration of trees into habitats, agricultural landscapes and institutions. In the year 2021, when Prof. Jayani was awarded the 'Land for Life Award' by the United Nations for his outstanding contribution to land conservation. His village then celebrated this honor with a mass event to establish a public nursery in the village. A unique initiative was taken to distribute indigenous saplings free of cost to the surrounding villages. With this initiative Canada, U. S. And various UK institutions and international organizations were attracted. It funds the initiative. Besides the nursery, a small forest block has been developed in memory of freedom fighter Shaheed Bhagat Singh as a living tribute to his legacy, where 31 different tree species thrive. }