Renewable energy experience amongst large consumers of electricity : qualitative investigation results from Maharashtra

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Ashi Madhariya, Vasundhara Sen

Abstract

Renewable energy penetration is on the rise in India, amidst a target to achieve 175 Gigawatt (GW) of renewable energy installation by 2020, of which 40 GW is to come from distributed solar power. However, the actual installations only stand at 5.44 GW. The objective of this study is to analyse the user experience of distributed solar power adoption amongst large consumers of electricity, in the state of Maharashtra. Data was collected through in-depth qualitative interviews with existing users of solar rooftops in the state. Responses were then transcribed and subsequently analysed. Findings reveal that users of rooftop solar models enjoy significant advantages, but benefits reaped are far outstripped by the difficulties/challenges faced. This research concludes by recommending policy interventions that rectify observed challenges faced by users, thereby accelerating the adoption rate of distributed green energy solutions in India.

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