ISS Previous Year Paper 2021 GS Solution Question 2(b) Why Many Countries Prefer Coal over Solar and Wind Energy

ISS Previous Year Paper 2021 GS Solution Question 2(b) Why many countries prefer coal rather than solar or wind energy as a source of fuel. Detailed answer discussing economic, technological, and infrastructural reasons.

ISS Previous Year Paper 2021 GS Solution Question 2(b) Why Many Countries Prefer Coal over Solar and Wind Energy

ISS Previous Year Paper 2021 GS Solution Question

Q.2(b) Many countries prefer coal rather than solar or wind energy as a source of fuel. Why?

Answer :

Coal continues to remain an important source of energy for many countries because of several practical and economic reasons.

One major factor is energy reliability. Coal-based power plants can generate electricity continuously, whereas solar and wind energy depend on weather conditions. Solar power is unavailable at night, and wind energy generation fluctuates with wind speed.

Another reason is the existence of extensive coal infrastructure. Many countries have already invested heavily in coal mines, thermal power plants, and transportation networks. Replacing this infrastructure requires substantial financial resources.

Coal is also often perceived as a relatively low-cost energy source, especially in countries with abundant domestic coal reserves such as India, China, Australia, and South Africa. Dependence on domestic coal can reduce reliance on imported fuels.

Renewable energy projects require significant investments in energy storage technologies and modern electricity grids to ensure stable power supply. In many developing countries, such infrastructure is still evolving.

Coal-based industries also provide employment to millions of people, making rapid transition politically and economically challenging.

However, coal combustion is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Therefore, many countries are gradually increasing investments in renewable energy while attempting to balance economic growth and environmental sustainability.

Conclusion

Although renewable energy is expanding rapidly, coal continues to be preferred in many countries due to reliability, existing infrastructure, lower costs, and energy security considerations. Long-term sustainable development requires a gradual transition towards cleaner and more efficient energy sources.