Revolutionizing India’s Energy Landscape: Government’s Push for Grid-Scale Battery Storage

India’s government is taking a proactive approach to revolutionize the country’s energy landscape by promoting the development of grid-scale battery storage systems. As part of its ambitious plan to achieve 500 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity by 2030, the government is working on a production linked incentive (PLI) scheme worth up to ₹15,000 crore. This scheme aims to encourage the establishment of battery energy storage systems (BESS) to store renewable energy and ensure grid stability during peak demand. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of this initiative and its potential impact on India’s energy sector. 

The Need for Grid-Scale Battery Storage: 

Renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power are vital for India’s clean energy transition. However, their intermittent nature poses challenges in meeting peak demand. Grid-scale battery storage systems play a crucial role in stabilizing the grid and ensuring a consistent power supply during times when renewable sources are unavailable. These systems store excess energy produced during low-demand periods and release it during high-demand periods, thereby enhancing grid stability. 

The PLI Scheme: Boosting Grid-Scale Battery Storage: 

The government’s proposed PLI scheme for grid-scale battery storage aims to provide significant incentives to encourage the development of these systems. With an expected budget of ₹10,000-15,000 crore, the scheme aims to attract investments in various battery technologies, including lithium-ion, sodium-ion, and vanadium redox batteries. By not specifying a particular technology, the scheme encourages research and development in multiple avenues, promoting innovation and economic viability. 

The Path to Implementation: 

To ensure effective implementation of the PLI scheme, the government plans to seek inputs from stakeholders before presenting the draft plan to the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and an empowered group of secretaries. Due to the necessary approval processes, the scheme is expected to be notified around December 2023 or the first quarter of 2024. Similar to other PLI schemes, this initiative will run for five years, providing long-term support for the development of grid-scale battery storage. 

Reducing Dependence on Lithium Imports: 

To reduce reliance on imports of lithium, the primary mineral used in batteries, Indian researchers are exploring alternative battery chemistries. The aim is to establish domestic manufacturing capabilities for storage systems and ensure a sustainable supply chain. By diversifying the range of battery technologies, India can reduce its dependence on lithium imports and strengthen its energy security. 

Government Support and Financial Viability: 

The government’s commitment to supporting the energy storage sector is evident in the Union Budget 2023-24. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced funding support for battery energy storage systems, with a particular focus on a viability gap funding (VGF) program. This financial support will facilitate the immediate deployment of storage systems, promote domestic manufacturing, and ensure long-term supplies. 

Fostering a Resilient Energy Future: 

Recent policy decisions, including guidelines for procuring and utilizing BESS, have propelled the growth of the sector. The power ministry has mandated energy storage obligations for power distribution companies, further driving the integration of renewable energy into the grid. These measures collectively aim to enhance grid stability, promote clean energy adoption, and establish a resilient and sustainable energy future for India. 

Conclusion: 

India’s pursuit of 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030 necessitates innovative solutions to overcome the challenges posed by intermittency. The government’s proposed PLI scheme for grid-scale battery storage systems is a significant step in the right direction. By incentivizing the development of diverse battery technologies, India can enhance grid stability, reduce dependence on imports, foster domestic manufacturing, and accelerate its clean energy transition. With a comprehensive approach and long-term support, India is poised to become a global leader in grid-scale battery storage and secure a sustainable energy future for its citizens.

Written by 

Arpit Khandelwal

Linkedin: – https://www.linkedin.com/in/arpit-khandelwal1/