 |
| Photo source: Deccan Herald |
(Before I begin, a big apology to everyone who’s been reading and commenting regularly on my blog, especially during this A to Z series.
When I signed up for the challenge, I truly thought I’d have plenty of time not just to write my posts, but also to read and engage with yours. But, as life often does, things didn’t go quite as planned.
I am now prioritising A to Z posts, since I don't want to give up halfway.
I’m starting a new phase of life from May 1, and I’m hopeful that it’ll give me a lot more time for myself— and for the things I enjoy, like blogging and blog-hopping.
I’ll be back to visiting and reading your wonderful posts very soon.
Thank you so much!)
If that's the case, so many people should have shifted to it, especially since Bengaluru is known for its innovation and tech-driven growth.
But that doesn't seem to have happened.
Why?
A few points that came to my mind:
- Technical and regulatory barriers: Before anything else, I think this ranks first. Setting up a solar power system involves navigating regulatory approvals, net metering policies, and grid integration. It's not easy. The complexity of permissions and bureaucratic processes with Bescom (Bangalore Electricity Supply Company) and other authorities makes the whole thing quite cumbersome.
- High initial costs: There are a whole lot of subsidies. But installing solar panels still requires a significant upfront investment. This is a major put-off.
- Easy availability of conventional energy: Subsidised electricity from Bescom makes grid power seem more affordable, especially in the short term.
- Space constraints: Bengaluru, like many metropolitan cities, faces space constraints, particularly in apartment complexes and shared buildings. The collective decision-making required for installation often leads to delays or discourages adoption altogether.
- Lack of awareness: Many potential adopters don’t fully understand how subsidies, tax incentives, and net metering work.
- Slow policy implementation: Though policies promoting solar energy exist, their implementation is often inconsistent or slow, limiting widespread adoption.
- Climate challenges: Bengaluru has a very salubrious and sunny climate. But there are seasonal variations. For days together, it could be gloomy with no sign of the sun. This leads to concerns about reliability, particularly for households considering an off-grid system.
WHAT CAN BE DONE
Still, Bengaluru should be able to embrace solar power in a big way by focusing on community-driven initiatives and policy improvements.
- Corporate sustainability leadership: Bengaluru's tech and industrial sectors can lead by example, adopting large-scale solar systems and inspiring smaller businesses to follow.
- Policy streamlining: Faster approvals for net metering, reduced bureaucratic hurdles, and a consumer-friendly approach from Bescom can boost confidence in solar investments.
- Better financing models: Offering solar loans, EMI plans, and tax credits can make adoption financially viable for a broader population.
- Awareness campaigns: Government agencies and energy providers must actively educate consumers on incentives, financial benefits, and easy financing options.
- Community solar projects: Apartment complexes and business parks can collaborate to install shared solar systems, making renewable energy accessible to multiple users.
HOW IS IT IN YOUR CITY?
There is only so much that conventional energy sources can provide us. With the right incentives, community engagement, and policy shifts, Bengaluru can become a shining beacon of renewable energy in India. The city has the potential to unlock the full power of the sun.
How is the adoption of solar power in the place you live?
(This post is part of the A to Z Challenge. The theme is environment.)
Sorry you got slammed. April tends to do that to all of us.
ReplyDeleteSolar panels are on so many roofs around here. And some schools have put them up in their parking lots. Solar adoption could go better, but it's making it's way around here pretty well.
It's all so complicated, isn't it? I wish all the world can figure this out.
ReplyDelete