EAC-PM Report: Addressing Grid Instability Amidst Rapid Solar Expansion
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A recent working paper by the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) highlights the growing mismatch between solar energy supply and demand, warning of grid stress and operational challenges.
India’s ambitious transition toward renewable energy, particularly solar power, has reached a critical juncture. A recent working paper released by the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) has sounded an alarm regarding the increasing stress on India’s power grid due to high solar penetration. As the country scales up its renewable capacity to meet climate commitments, the inherent variability of solar energy—characterized by its peak generation during daylight hours—is creating a significant mismatch with consumer demand patterns.
The report underscores that this supply-demand imbalance is not merely a technical hurdle but a complex governance challenge. Grid instability, if left unaddressed, leads to price volatility and the forced curtailment of energy, where generated power is wasted because the grid cannot absorb it. From an administrative perspective, this raises serious questions about the efficiency of public infrastructure management. The EAC-PM highlights that the ethical responsibility of the state extends beyond merely installing solar panels; it involves ensuring the reliability and affordability of power for all citizens, particularly the vulnerable sections who are most affected by price fluctuations.
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This article was curated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical facts from official sources.