Examining Solar Energy Policy in China and India. : A Comparative Study on the Potential for Energy Security and Sustainable Development

As living standards improve and population numbers increase in China and India, the demand and consumption of electricity will continue to intensify. Although both countries maintain a strong dependence on fossil fuels to meet energy demands, a recognition of the importance of a low carbon transition is apparent from the governments of both countries. China and India have both made commitments to abate global climate change, reduce poverty rates and enhance efforts to reduce fossil fuel dependence. Solar energy has experienced phenomenal growth in the last twenty years due to technological advances, priced reductions and governmental support policies. Yet in China and India policy development has been very erratic. This paper takes a case study approach to examine solar energy policies, particularly solar energy auctions, in China and India. Thus, this thesis aims to examine solar energy policy in China and India, and compare the potential of each country for energy security and sustainable development under the IRENA framework to Evaluate Renewable Energy Policy. The performance of solar energy policy in China and India is assessed on criteria of effectiveness, efficiency, equity and institutional feasibility. This study find that China has installed more cumulative solar capacity than India and that overall that solar energy policy in China is stronger than in India. However, at an individual policy level, India’s solar energy auction policy is stronger than China’s. Thus, the long-term sustainability of solar energy policy and deployment in both countries is a complex and multifaceted issue. This thesis concludes that for energy security and sustainable development the continuation of policy support is necessary in both countries to ensure that solar will continue to grow in significance