South Korea becomes a part of the Solar Alliance: Solar Cooperation in the World.

Overview

The move by South Korea into the International Solar Alliance will be a major step towards enhancing global cooperation in the field of renewable energy. ISA was initiated by India and France in the Paris climate conference 2015, to increase the use of solar energy globally. The alliance has more than 120 member countries and is aimed at enhancing solar accessibility, particularly in the developing areas of Africa, Asia, and the Small Island states.

Strategic Importance of South Korea entry.

South Korea will contribute high technology and ambitious renewable energy that will improve the effectiveness of ISA. Its involvement will:

• Speed up the installation of solar around the world.
• Encourage development of solar technologies.
• Enhance funding and infrastructure provision.

This action goes along with further strengthening of India-South Korea relations to a future-oriented relationship, characterized by increased co-operation in energy, trade, and technology.

About the International Solar Alliance (ISA)

ISA, headquartered in Gurugram, India, is the first Indian based intergovernmental organisation. Its major aims are:

• Investing and mobilising solar investments of 1 trillion by 2030.
• Decreasing technology and financing expenses.
• Developing capacity and policy structures.
• Aiding Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

South Korea’s Renewable Energy Strategy

The objective of South Korea is to have 100GW of renewable energy output by the year 2030. Key initiatives include:

• Essential rooftop industrial solar.
• Solar agro-photovoltaic and floating solar.
• Community participation: Solar Income Villages.

India Leads in Solar Energy.

India, being the ISA President, remains at the forefront of world solar endeavours with:

• Installed solar capacity of about 136 GW.
• By 2030: Target of 500 GW non-fossil capacity.
• Programs such as One Sun, One World, One Grid (OSOWOG).

Exam-Focused Key Points

• Launched in 2015 (IndiaFrance initiative)
• Headquarters: Gurugram
• Over 120 member countries
• South Korea becomes a member of ISA in 2026.
• Target solar growth in developing countries.

MCQ

Q1. When did the International Solar Alliance (ISA) have its opening?
A. Rio Earth Summit
2015 Paris climate change conference.
C. Meeting of Kyoto Protocol.
D. Glasgow COP26

Answer: B

Rationalization: ISA was