DRE is a term for energy that is produced near its intended usage and often uses renewable energy sources, like solar photovoltaic technology, rooftop solar panels, micro or mini-grids, and rechargeable batteries.
It aims to offer communities, especially those in rural and peri-urban areas, clean and sustainable energy options.
Applications: Higher capacity pump, Silk-reeling machine, Dryers, Cold storage etc.
Challenges: significant up-front expenses (like purchase and installation), a lack of awareness and expertise, inadequate legal and legislative frameworks, and technical and operational problems.
Why in news?
According to a recent study by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water and Villgro Innovations Foundation, Decentralised renewable energy (DRE) technologies have a market potential worth Rs 4 lakh crore in India.