Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission

The Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM) is a landmark initiative under the National Action Plan on Climate Change in India, launched in 2010. Named after Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, the mission aims to establish India as a global leader in solar energy. It seeks to promote ecologically sustainable growth while addressing the nation’s energy security challenges.

Objectives and Goals

The mission's primary objective is to create policy conditions for the large-scale diffusion of solar energy across India. With an emphasis on reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable industrialization, the mission intends to increase solar power capacity and innovation. The approach is structured in three phases: Phase 1 (2010-2013), Phase 2 (2013-2017), and Phase 3 (2017-2022), aligning with the nation’s Five-Year Plans.

Implementation and Strategy

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is the nodal agency responsible for implementing the mission. It collaborates with the Solar Energy Corporation of India to achieve its targets. The mission focuses on both grid-connected solar power projects and off-grid applications, encouraging innovations in solar photovoltaic technology and solar thermal applications.

Phases of the Mission

Phase 1 (2010-2013)

The initial phase of the mission focused on establishing a strong policy and regulatory environment to encourage investment and participation in the solar energy sector. Key initiatives included setting up solar parks and launching pilot projects to demonstrate the viability of solar technology in the Indian context.

Phase 2 (2013-2017)

In its second phase, the mission aimed to build on the foundation laid during Phase 1 by significantly increasing solar power capacity. This phase saw the introduction of Ultra Mega Solar Power Projects and expansion of solar installations in rural and urban areas.

Phase 3 (2017-2022)

The ongoing third phase focuses on achieving the target of 100 GW of solar power by 2022. It emphasizes technological advancement, cost reduction, and improvement in manufacturing capabilities to make solar energy more affordable and accessible.

Impact and Significance

The Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission has been instrumental in positioning India as a leader in renewable energy. It contributes to global efforts to combat climate change and supports sustainable development goals. The mission has also provided economic benefits by creating employment opportunities and fostering innovations in the solar energy sector.