Solar energy - Path to sustainability

The issue of climate change is becoming more and more relevant as climate is getting worse at a progressive rate. Fossil fuels are main contributors to climate change. This recent interest in climate issues has helped the rise of alternative energy sources.. But even after 50 years of all the furore, we knowingly or unknowingly have been involved in reckless, mindless and directionless exploitation of our scarce resources in the name of development. This paper discusses the concept of sustainable development and various options to the Path to Sustainability. The word Sustainable has its roots in hindi language word ‘DHARNIY’ -jo dharan karne yogay ho, jise vahan kiya ja sake- means what we are able to bear. These lines are in conformity with the need of much talked about concept of sustainable development and were perhaps written even before the famous 1972 Stockholm Conference. One of the much talked about and important option is Solar Energy. This paper discusses the current status of rooftop solar energy initiatives at industry and household level. The paper discusses the need to boost domestic users by exploring the opportunities and challenges in the way of installing rooftop solar power panels.