Roadmap for Answer Writing
Introduction
- Define non-conventional energy sources (renewable energy).
- Briefly state the importance of these sources for eco-friendly energy solutions.
List of Non-Conventional Energy Sources
- Organize the response by categorizing each energy source.
Detailed Description of Each Source
- For each source, include:
- Overview: What it is and how it works.
- Potential in India: Specific data and facts.
- Eco-Friendly Contribution: How it aids in reducing pollution and reliance on fossil fuels.
Conclusion
- Summarize the significance of transitioning to non-conventional energy sources in India.
Relevant Facts to Include
1. Solar Energy
- Fact: India receives solar energy in the range of 5 to 7 kWh/m² for 300 to 330 days a year.
- Potential: A target of 100 GW of solar energy by 2022, with significant installations in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Gujarat, and Rajasthan.
- Source: Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
2. Wind Energy
- Fact: India has a wind power potential of approximately 302 GW at 100 meters and 695.5 GW at 120 meters above ground level.
- Target: Aim to achieve 60 GW of wind energy by 2022, with major wind farms in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Karnataka.
- Source: MNRE.
3. Bio-Energy
- Fact: The current biomass availability in India is estimated at about 750 million metric tonnes per year.
- Potential: Surplus biomass can generate around 28 GW of energy, with a target of 10 GW from bio-power by 2022.
- Source: MNRE.
4. Hydro-Energy
- Fact: Estimated small hydropower potential in India is about 20 GW, particularly in hilly areas.
- Target: Aim to achieve 5 GW of energy from small hydro by 2022.
- Source: MNRE.
5. Tidal and Wave Energy
- Fact: Tidal power potential is estimated at around 12,500 MW, and wave energy potential is about 41,000 MW.
- Locations: Promising locations include the Gulf of Khambhat, Gulf of Kutch, and the Western Coast of Maharashtra.
- Source: MNRE.
6. Geothermal Energy
- Fact: India is in the early stages of utilizing geothermal energy, with potential sites in Rajgir (Bihar), Manikaran (Himachal Pradesh), and others.
- Source: MNRE.
Summary
- Reinforce the eco-friendly benefits of these non-conventional energy sources.
- Mention the importance of these sources in achieving energy security and reducing carbon footprints.
As for India’s future energy plans, the non conventional energy sources are very crucial for the clean energy transition. These sources are able to cut back on the use of fossil fuels, reduce pollution and promote sustainable development.
1. Solar Energy
The amount of sunshine in India is six months of sunshine while the potential of solar energy ranges from 5 to 7 kWh/m² and is available for about 300 -330 days in a year. Areas such as Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Gujarat have achieved 100 GW by 2022, and therefore solar energy use is steadily rising, and with it, the level of greenhouse gas emissions is decreasing.
2. Wind energy
The wind potential that India possesses is equivalent to around 302 GW at 100 meters height, which is similar to the wind power produced in regions such as Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. This source is aimed at producing 60 GW by the year 2022, the power generated from wind energy comes from a clean and endless resource, thus cutting down carbon emission.
3. Bio Energy
Bio-energy is estimated to generate 28 GW of power from India’s 750 million metric tonnes of biomass. Bio energy inhibits waste, boosts rural economies, and still in the end reduces carbon emissions.
4. Small Hydro Electricity
India has small hydropower resources, mainly in hilly areas, of approximately 20 GW of small hydro power potential. Environmental problems are minimal when utilizing small hydro projects for renewable energy.
5. Tidal and Wave Energy
The tidal energy factors that can be used are at an estimated 12,500 tidal currents per unit of energy production, India’s Coastal regions like Gulf of Khambhat.
Model Answer
Non-Conventional Energy Sources in India
India is rich in non-conventional energy sources, which are essential for sustainable development and reducing environmental impacts. Here are key sources and their contributions to eco-friendly energy solutions.
1. Solar Energy
India enjoys abundant solar radiation, averaging 5 to 7 kWh/m² for 300 to 330 days a year. This potential allows for significant solar power generation, with ambitions to reach 100 GW by 2022. Major solar energy hubs include Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Gujarat, and Rajasthan, with the Bhadla Solar Park in Jodhpur being the largest globally. Solar energy is crucial for reducing reliance on fossil fuels, thereby minimizing carbon emissions. (Source: MNRE)
2. Wind Energy
India has a gross wind power potential of approximately 302 GW at 100 meters and 695.5 GW at 120 meters above ground level. Key states for wind energy include Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Karnataka, with a target of 60 GW by 2022. Wind energy is a clean alternative that helps mitigate air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. (Source: MNRE)
3. Bio-Energy
Derived from biological products like agricultural residues and waste, bio-energy has an estimated availability of 750 million metric tonnes per year in India. The surplus biomass could generate about 28 GW of energy, with a target of 10 GW from bio-power by 2022. This resource helps in waste management and provides a renewable energy source. (Source: MNRE)
4. Hydro-Energy
Small hydro power plants (≤25 MW) leverage India’s many streams, especially in hilly areas, with a potential of 20 GW. The target is to achieve 5 GW from small hydro by 2022. This energy is renewable and helps in flood control and irrigation. (Source: MNRE)
5. Tidal and Wave Energy
India’s tidal power potential is around 12,500 MW, while wave energy potential is 41,000 MW. Although not yet commercially utilized, these sources could significantly contribute to India’s energy mix. (Source: MNRE)
6. Geothermal Energy
Geothermal energy is still in its infancy in India, with promising sites identified in states like Bihar and Himachal Pradesh. This heat energy can provide a stable and eco-friendly energy source. (Source: MNRE)
Conclusion
Non-conventional energy sources are vital for India’s transition to a sustainable energy future. They are non-polluting, renewable, and play a significant role in reducing dependency on fossil fuels, contributing to a cleaner environment.
Energy
Non-Conventional Energy Sources in India
Key Sources
Eco-Friendly Contribution
These sources reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and promote sustainable development, making India’s energy solutions more eco-friendly.