UPSC Mains 2022 GS1 Q7 — Renewable Energy
Examine the potential of wind energy in India and explain the reasons for their limited spatial spread. (Answer in 150 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Examineexplain
- Scope keywords
- potential of wind energyIndiareasonslimited spatial spread
- Implicit sub-parts
- Quantification of theoretical vs. installed capacity (e.g., NIWE estimates at 120m/150m hub height).
- Geographic concentration in the 'Wind States' of Western and Southern India.
- Technological and topographic barriers preventing inland expansion.
- Policy and infrastructure bottlenecks like grid connectivity and land acquisition.
- Common pitfalls
- Focusing only on the benefits of wind energy instead of its 'potential' and 'limitations'.
- Missing the mention of 'Offshore' wind potential which is a crucial modern dimension.
- Failing to list specific states (Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, etc.) to illustrate the spatial concentration.
- Generalizing reasons for limited spread without addressing specific wind-speed requirements and hub-height technology.
- Dimensions required
- Geographical (wind density zones)Technological (hub height and turbine efficiency)Economic (high capital cost vs. solar)Infrastructural (grid evacuation and interstate transmission)Regulatory (land use and bidding mechanisms)
- Marks allocation hint
Allocate 40 words to the 'potential' by citing NIWE targets and the 7,500km coastline. Use 90 words for the 'reasons for limited spread' by categorizing them into geographic, technical, and land-related factors. Reserve 20 words for a forward-looking conclusion on Repowering or the National Offshore Wind Energy Policy.
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