Rajasthan to Adopt Energy Storage Systems in Solar Sector Expansion

Context:
Rajasthan announced plans to integrate energy storage and hybrid systems into its solar energy infrastructure to strengthen renewable energy capacity, grid reliability, and large-scale deployment. The announcement was made during the Global Solar Expo–Rajasthan 2025, signalling the State’s shift toward next-generation clean energy systems.

Key Highlights

Energy Transition Strategy

• Rajasthan aims to utilise:
  • Solar-hybrid systems
  • Battery energy storage systems (BESS)
  • Green hydrogen-compatible frameworks
• These technologies will serve as the backbone of future renewable energy infrastructure in the State.

Sectoral Achievements

• Rajasthan has already secured the top position in solar energy capacity among Indian states.
• Extensive solar parks and advanced power grid connectivity infrastructure position the State as a global destination for renewable investment.

Policy and Industry Collaboration

• The Expo highlighted strong participation from domestic and international stakeholders.
• The event was jointly organised by Energy Quotient Magazine and CZZ Solar & Decarbonisation Marketplace.
• Minister of State for Energy Heeralal Nagar inaugurated the event, emphasising the State’s goal of emerging as a major investment hub in renewable infrastructure.

Relevant Prelims Points

• Rajasthan Renewable Ranking:
  • Leading state in solar capacity under India’s renewable energy mission.
• Hybrid Solar Systems:
  • Combine solar with wind or storage to ensure stable power supply.
• Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS):
  • Enable load balancing, power backup, and lower intermittency.
• Green Hydrogen:
  • Produced using renewable power and electrolysis; key to hard-to-abate sectors.
• National Policies Linked:
  • National Solar Mission
  • Green Hydrogen Mission (2023)
  • Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) Targets

Relevant Mains Points

• Role of Storage in Renewable Transition
  • Battery and hybrid systems address intermittency challenges of solar and wind.
  • Enable real-time grid stabilisation and peak load shifting.
• Economic and Investment Implications
  • Storage integration could make Rajasthan a hub for:
    • Renewable R&D
    • Green manufacturing
    • Clean energy export to other states
• Climate and Sustainability Context
  • Supports India’s commitments under:
    • Paris Agreement
    • Net-zero target by 2070
    • Reduction of fossil fuel dependency
• Infrastructure and Policy Challenges
  • Cost of storage technologies still high.
  • Need for long-term viability gap funding and grid reforms.
  • Requirement for skilled workforce and incentives for domestic manufacturing.

Way Forward

• Expand PPP models and battery manufacturing incentives under PLI schemes.
• Invest in smart grids, forecasting tools, and storage R&D.
• Align state renewable policies with India’s national carbon-neutral agenda.

UPSC Relevance:

• GS-III: Environment, Renewable Energy, Climate Commitments, Infrastructure
• GS-II: Energy Policy, Centre–State Governance

Prelims: Solar-hybrid systems, Battery Energy Storage, Green Hydrogen Mission