| Syllabus: GS-III, Subject: Economy, Topic: Industry and Industrial policies, Issue: Solar Industry |
Context: Government policy to discourage imports of solar panels.
- The policy requires solar module makers to undergo inspection by the National Institute of Solar Energy for certification.
- Being on the approved list allows companies to compete for government tenders, including flagship solar energy programs.
Significance:
- The creation of the list aims to reduce imports from China, which dominates 80% of the global supply.
- Help in meeting 500 GW of electricity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030, with at least 280 GW from solar power.
- It will help domestic panel manufacturers who were losing orders to cheaper Chinese panels.
Conclusion:
- Quality checks are crucial for domestic manufacturers, balancing cost and quality without compromising on nationalistic grounds.
- The Indian solar industry should aim for growth and reputation as a high-quality exporter.
