India Faces Challenges Balancing Coal Reliance and RenewablesGrowth While Closing Inequality Gaps
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India's renewable energy capacity is growing rapidly, but coal will remain important through 2035-2040. The country has set a 2070 net zero target.
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India's mineral wealth is concentrated in poorer eastern/central states, while sunnier/windier states are richer. This geographic mismatch could worsen inequality.
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Jharkhand, India's top coal state, accounts for just 1.7% of India's solar/wind potential. Richer western/southern states have most of India's renewables potential.
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As India shifts from coal, poorer coal-dependent states will see revenues fall and may have to buy power from other states, worsening finances.
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Jharkhand has set up a task force to plan its transition, ensuring policies are implemented. Other affected states should follow its example.