The International Solar Alliance (ISA) is a global intergovernmental organization launched in 2015 at COP-21 in Paris by India and France. It aims to promote solar energy deployment, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and make solar power affordable and accessible. Headquarters: Gurugram, India
Member Countries
- Open to all UN member states; initially targeted 121 “sunshine countries” located between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn.
- As of 2025, over 120 signatory countries with 100+ ratifications.
- Notable members: India, France, Australia, Brazil, Bangladesh, UAE, Japan, UK, etc.
Objectives of International Solar Alliance (ISA)
- Mobilize $1 trillion investment by 2030 in solar energy.
- Reduce cost of solar power through joint research, standardization, and demand aggregation.
- Facilitate technology transfer and innovation.
- Promote solar applications in agriculture, healthcare, and rural development.
- Enhance energy access and security through solar-based solutions.
Achievements of International Solar Alliance (ISA)
- Launched Global Solar Atlas and Solar Technology Mission.
- Implemented solar projects in Africa and Asia under ISA Solar Parks & Solar Home Systems.
- Facilitated concessional financing and risk mitigation mechanisms.
- Supported programs like One Sun One World One Grid (OSOWOG) initiative.
- Played a role in reducing the cost of solar PV globally through collaboration.
Challenges
- Financing gap: Limited flow of affordable capital to developing countries.
- Technological divide: Access to advanced solar tech remains uneven.
- Policy & regulatory hurdles in member countries.
- Grid integration & storage issues for renewable energy.
- Need for stronger private sector participation.
International Solar Alliance and India
- India is the founder and permanent host of ISA.
- Enhances India’s global leadership in climate diplomacy.
- Supports India’s target of 500 GW renewable energy by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2070.
- Strengthens India’s role in South-South cooperation by helping developing nations with solar infrastructure and capacity building.
- A tool of India’s soft power in the Global South and Indo-Pacific.
Conclusion
The ISA represents a pioneering global effort to harness solar power for sustainable development. While it faces challenges in finance and technology transfer, it offers a platform for collective action against climate change. For India, ISA is both a diplomatic and developmental instrument, advancing its leadership in renewable energy and international cooperation.
5 Practice MCQS on ISA:
Q1. The International Solar Alliance (ISA) was jointly launched by:
a) India and USA
b) India and France
c) India and Germany
d) India and UNDP
Answer: b) India and France
Q2. Headquarters of the International Solar Alliance is located in:
a) New Delhi
b) Gurugram
c) Paris
d) Geneva
Answer: b) Gurugram
Q3. The ISA primarily aims to mobilize how much investment in solar energy by 2030?
a) $100 billion
b) $250 billion
c) $500 billion
d) $1 trillion
Answer: d) $1 trillion
Q4. Which of the following initiatives is linked to ISA?
a) One Sun One World One Grid
b) International Green Bond Fund
c) Clean Development Mechanism
d) REDD+
Answer: a) One Sun One World One Grid
Q5. Consider the following statements:
- ISA membership is restricted only to countries located between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn.
- India is the permanent host of ISA headquarters.
Which is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: b) 2 only (ISA is now open to all UN members)
Mains Practice Questions
Q1. Discuss the role of the International Solar Alliance in promoting renewable energy transition globally. How does it contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)?
Q2. Examine the strategic importance of the International Solar Alliance for India’s climate diplomacy and energy security. Highlight the challenges India faces in realizing the ISA’s objectives.