WHY IN THE NEWS?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for ‘One Sun, One World, One Grid’ on November 2, 2021, for improving the viability of solar power.

About:

• On the occasion, he also announced that India’s space agency, ISRO will provide a calculator to the world soon, that can measure the solar energy potential of any region.
• ‘One Sun, One World, One Grid’ (OSOWOG) solution will be used to tackle the challenge of solar power.
• Earth’s atmosphere receives enough sunlight in one hour, that can be used to power the electricity needed of every human on earth for a year.
• However, solar energy is only available during the day. Another challenge is that it is dependent on weather conditions.

About OSOWOG

This project is about setting a ‘trans-national electricity grid to supply solar power across the world. The vision behind OSOWOG is ‘The Sun Never Sets’. It is a constant at some geographical location, across the globe, at any given point of time. This is the most ambitious schemes undertaken by India and is significant in terms economic benefits. It has been taken up under the technical assistance program of the World Bank. This plan will also leverage the International Solar Alliance (ISA).

Three Phases of the OSOWOG

• First Phase: It will involve interconnectivity within the Asian continent.
• Second Phase: Africa will be added.
• Third Phase: It will involve global interconnection.

Significance of OSOWOG

• OSOWOG project will help all the participating countries in attracting investments in renewable energy sources. It will also help in utilizing finances, skills and technology.
• It will lead to lesser project costs, higher efficiencies and increased asset utilization across all the participating entities.
• Economic benefits arising out of the project will result into poverty alleviation. It will also support in mitigating water & sanitation, food and other socio-economic challenges.