Solar Energy — Prelims Strategy
Prelims Strategy
To ace Prelims questions on Solar Energy, a multi-pronged approach focusing on factual accuracy and conceptual clarity is essential. Firstly, master the numbers: targets of the National Solar Mission (initial, revised, and 2030 goals), current installed capacity, and the estimated solar potential of India.
Secondly, memorize key schemes and their specific objectives: JNNSM, Solar Park Scheme, Rooftop Solar Programme, and PM-KUSUM. Understand what each scheme primarily aims to achieve to avoid confusion.
Thirdly, identify major solar installations: know the largest solar parks (Bhadla, Pavagada, Kamuthi) and their respective states and capacities. Fourthly, understand the International Solar Alliance (ISA): its origin, objectives, membership, headquarters, and India's role.
Fifthly, grasp basic technological distinctions: clearly differentiate between Photovoltaic (PV) and Solar Thermal technologies, their working principles, and primary applications. Finally, stay updated with current affairs: recent capacity additions, new policy announcements, and significant projects (e.
g., floating solar) are frequent Prelims fodder. Practice MCQs with detailed explanations to identify common traps, such as outdated targets or misattributed scheme objectives. Focus on 'what, where, when, and who' for quick recall.