Despite initial expectations, the ISA has struggled to meet its goals, particularly in advancing solar adoption in developing countries.
Introduction
- The International Solar Alliance (ISA), launched by Indian PM Narendra Modi in 2015, aimed to accelerate the deployment of solar energy globally, especially in the Global South.
ISA’s Mission and Role
- ISA is a coalition to facilitate global solar deployment, focusing on reducing barriers to solar energy access in developing nations.
- Over 110 countries are members.
Global Solar Installation Landscape
- Solar capacity has grown globally, but growth is largely concentrated in a few countries, especially China.
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- China leads with a 3 GW capacity.
- The European Union follows with 7 GW.
- India ranks third with 112 GW installed capacity.
- India’s growth in solar installations is notable, though barriers like land acquisition and financial investment limits persist.
India’s Role in Leadership
- India’s role in ISA is pivotal, given its leadership position in the alliance and commitment to solar energy deployment.
- The ISA aims to address energy needs beyond India, supporting other Global South countries.
- ISA has announced ambitious goals, including the deployment of 1,000 GW of solar capacity by 2030.
Challenges
- Regulatory Barriers: Developing countries, particularly in Africa, face complex and restrictive regulatory frameworks that hinder solar deployment.
- Financial Constraints: Limited access to finance and investment for large-scale solar projects in developing regions.
- Infrastructure and Manufacturing Dependence: Most solar manufacturing is concentrated in China, creating supply chain dependencies and energy security risks.
- Lack of Skilled Workforce and Expertise: Insufficient local expertise in solar technology and project implementation in many member countries.
- Land Acquisition Issues: Difficulty in securing land for large solar installations, especially in densely populated or agriculturally active regions.
- Intermittency of Solar Power: Solar energy’s reliance on sunlight limits its consistency, posing challenges for continuous energy supply.
Solutions
- Regulatory Reforms: ISA is working with governments to draft and implement solar-friendly policies, such as standardized power purchase agreements.
- Financial Support Mechanisms: ISA aims to facilitate investment by creating investor-friendly frameworks and reducing perceived risks.
- Encouraging Local Manufacturing: To reduce reliance on China, there’s a push to establish manufacturing bases in more countries, especially within the Global South.
- Capacity Building: Training programs and knowledge-sharing initiatives to build local expertise and workforce capability in solar technology.
- Innovative Financing Models: Implementing financing models that attract both public and private investments to overcome financial constraints.
- International Collaboration: ISA is fostering partnerships to share best practices and improve regulatory environments across member countries.
