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8th November 2024 (10 Topics)

Stock of the International Solar Alliance

Context

The International Solar Alliance (ISA), launched in 2015 by India to accelerate solar energy adoption across developing countries, has seen limited success. Despite its ambitious goals, it has made only modest progress, particularly in the Global South, where energy access remains a significant issue. As the ISA marks its ninth year, experts are questioning its impact and why its promise hasn't materialized as expected.

What Is the ISA?

  • Launched in 2015 by India with support from France, the ISA was designed to boost solar energy deployment in developing countries.
  • The ISA aims to overcome financial, technological, and regulatory barriers to solar energy deployment, especially in Africa, Latin America, and other parts of the Global South.
  • It functions as a facilitator rather than a project developer, aiming to create an enabling environment for solar energy adoption.
  • The ISA is seen as a key component of India’s diplomatic outreach to the Global South, particularly in Africa.
  • Slow Progress: ISA's Impact Remains Modest
  • Despite 110+ member countries, the ISA has failed to deliver substantial solar projects.
  • The first ISA-facilitated project is a 60 MW solar plant in Cuba, but it is still in the early stages and not yet operational.
  • Other countries, especially in Africa, have completed preparatory work, but large-scale solar deployment remains limited.

Global Solar Growth:

  • While global solar capacity grew at 20% annually, most installations occurred in countries like China and India, which accounted for over 80% of solar investments.
  • Africa—where energy access is a major concern—has seen less than 2% of new solar installations, highlighting a major gap in ISA's outreach.

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