UPSC Notes

Energy Transition Policies and Challenges

PYQs

8

Articles

1

Momentum

21

Phase IFoundation

Background

Overview

India is actively pursuing an energy transition, investing heavily in renewable energy while also managing its fossil fuel dependency. Understanding policy instruments (e.g., public energy companies, decarbonisation plans), the challenges of balancing energy security with climate commitments, and the role of geopolitical events (e.g., Ukraine war) in shaping energy policy is crucial for GS3 (Economy, Infrastructure, Environment).

Energy transition involves a systemic shift from fossil fuel-dependent energy systems to sustainable, low-carbon alternatives, driven by climate imperatives, energy security concerns, and technological innovation, requiring comprehensive policy frameworks, investments, and addressing socio-economic impacts.

Phase IIStatic core

Facts & tables

Key facts

UK's foundational climate legislation

The UK implemented the 2008 Climate Change Act and its first economy-wide decarbonisation strategy (Low Carbon Transition Plan).

Publicly owned clean energy company

Establishment of Great British Energy, a publicly owned company, to accelerate homegrown clean energy production and deployment.

Strategic clean power plan

The Clean Power 2030 Action Plan aims to reduce fossil fuel dependency and harness natural resources for energy security.

Conflict over fossil fuel extraction

Ongoing debate regarding new oil and gas drilling licenses (e.g., North Sea) highlights the tension between energy security and climate goals.

Reference table

Static syllabus anchors

TypeReference
Conceptual areaEnergy Security
Conceptual areaSustainable Development

Reference table

Institutions & roles

BodyRole
Great British EnergyImplements
Phase IIIExam lens

Prelims angle

Overview

Prelims angle: Multi-statement analysis

Prelims angle: Factual recall

Quick revision

  • Legislative frameworks for decarbonisation.
  • Role of public entities in clean energy.
  • Strategies for reducing fossil fuel dependency.
  • Balancing energy security with climate goals.
  • Impact of geopolitical events on energy policy.

High-confidence PYQs

Topic timeline

Energy SecuritySustainable Development

Ed Miliband | The climate diplomat

02 Aug 2026 · Examines national policies and strategies adopted by countries for transitioning to clean energy, including legislative frameworks, public sector involvement, and the inherent conflicts with traditional energy sources.

Read article

Related topics

Current topic

Energy Transition Policies and Challenges

Practice writing on this topic

UPSC has asked 8 linked questions on Energy Transition Policies and Challenges in Mains. Write an answer to one — and get it evaluated.

UPSC Prelims PYQs on Energy Transition Policies and Challenges

Practice official previous year questions asked by UPSC related to this concept.

In the context of proposals to the use of hydrogen-enriched CNG (H-CNG) as fuel for buses in public transport, consider the following statements : 1. The mai...

2019·Environment & Ecology
Solve

Consider the following: 1. Battery storage 2. Biomass generators 3. Fuel cells 4. Rooftop solar photovoltaic units How many of the above are considered "Di...

2024·Science & Technology
Solve

Consider the following heavy industries : 1. Fertilizer plants 2. Oil refineries 3. Steel plants Green hydrogen is expected to play a significant role i...

2023·Environment & Ecology
Solve

With reference to green hydrogen, Consider the following statements : 1. It can be used directly as a fuel for internal combustion. 2. It can be blended w...

2023·Environment & Ecology
Solve

Consider the following types of vehicles: I. Full battery electric vehicles II. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles III. Fuel cell electric hybrid vehicles How man...

2025·Science & Technology
Solve

With reference to the usefulness of the by-products of the sugar industry, which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. Bagasse can be used as biomas...

2013·Science & Technology
Solve

Consider the following materials: 1. Agricultural residues 2. Corn grain 3. Wastewater treatment sludge 4. Wood mill waste Which of the above can be used a...

2024·Environment & Ecology
Solve

With reference to ‘fuel cells’ in which hydrogen-rich fuel and oxygen are used to generate electricity. Consider the following statements: 1. If pure hydroge...

2015·Environment & Ecology
Solve

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