India can benefit from decentralised energy solutions: expert

Says rooftop solar panels have many advantages

Countries like India could focus on decentralised energy solutions like rooftop solar panels to play a greater role in the global energy transition drive which is gaining traction across the world, says Henning Wuester, Director, Knowledge, Policy and Finance, International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

Talking to The Hindu on the sidelines of the Berlin Energy Transition Dialogue, Mr. Wuester said policy initiatives and regulatory mechanisms held the key to promoting decentralised energy solutions. “While rooftop solar has the advantage of being easy to install and cost effective, it requires incentives for households to switch over,” he said, pointing out that Bangladesh had successfully tried out leasing rooftop space for solar panels.

Investments

“From the cost and technology perspective, the potential for rooftop solar is huge but it requires a framework for investors to come forward. Provincial regulations should not turn out to be detrimental to their interests. The focus should be on attracting entrepreneurs and helping consumers make a choice.”

Mr. Wuester said decentralised solutions could be off grid as in Bangladesh or used to supplement the grid supply. “Ultimately, such efforts should be demand driven. It is up to the consumers to spur demand and influence policy-making.”