Roadmap for Answer Writing
Introduction
- Define non-conventional (renewable) energy sources (solar, wind, hydro, biomass, geothermal, etc.).
- Briefly introduce India’s growing energy needs and the importance of securing energy independence.
- State the role of non-conventional energy sources in addressing these challenges.
Body
- Role of Non-Conventional Energy Sources in Ensuring Energy Security:
- Diversification of Energy Mix:
- Mention the importance of a diversified energy portfolio.
- Fact: As of 2021, renewable energy accounted for 24% of India’s total installed power capacity.
- Example: The government set a target of 175 GW renewable energy capacity by 2022 (100 GW from solar, 60 GW from wind).
- Reduction in Dependence on Imports:
- Explain how non-conventional energy sources reduce India’s reliance on imported oil and gas.
- Fact: India imports over 80% of its crude oil and 45% of natural gas.
- Example: Solar power projects in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu reduce the need for coal-fired power and imported coal.
- Energy Independence:
- Emphasize how renewable energy sources help achieve greater energy independence, especially from volatile global markets.
- Example: Solar energy and wind energy projects can replace coal, reducing dependency on fossil fuel imports.
- Diversification of Energy Mix:
- Environmental and Economic Benefits:
- Environmental Impact:
- Discuss the environmental advantages over hydrocarbon-based energy.
- Fact: India’s renewable energy capacity helps avoid around 49 million tons of CO2 emissions annually.
- Economic Benefits:
- Mention job creation, industry development, and long-term savings.
- Example: Growth in the renewable energy sector, such as solar and wind power, leads to increased job opportunities and energy cost savings over time.
- Environmental Impact:
- Complementing Existing Hydrocarbon Resources:
- Solar Energy:
- Explain how solar panels, especially on rooftops, supplement conventional power generation.
- Fact: India has one of the largest solar power capacities globally.
- Wind Energy:
- Mention the role of wind farms in supplementing electricity generation.
- Example: Wind farms in Tamil Nadu and Gujarat contribute significantly to the national grid.
- Biomass and Other Sources:
- Biomass energy from agricultural waste can replace conventional fuels in sectors like transportation and industry.
- Example: Bioethanol production from agricultural waste supports the transportation sector.
- Solar Energy:
Conclusion
- Summarize the importance of non-conventional energy sources in reducing dependence on hydrocarbons.
- Highlight their complementary role in achieving energy security while promoting sustainability.
- Suggest the potential for a cleaner, greener energy future through continued investment and development in renewable sources.
Relevant Facts for the Answer
- Renewable Energy Share:
- As of 2021, renewable energy accounted for 24% of India’s total installed power capacity.
- The Indian government set a target to achieve 175 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2022, with 100 GW from solar power and 60 GW from wind power.
- Imports of Hydrocarbons:
- India imports over 80% of its crude oil and about 45% of its natural gas requirements.
- Environmental Impact:
- India’s renewable energy capacity has helped avoid around 49 million tons of CO2 emissions annually, demonstrating the environmental benefits of non-conventional energy.
- Examples of Non-Conventional Energy Projects:
- Solar power installations in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu.
- Wind farms in Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Maharashtra.
- Biomass energy projects that convert agricultural waste into usable fuel.
- Economic Benefits:
- Renewable energy projects generate employment, from solar panel manufacturing to maintenance jobs in wind farms and biomass plants.
- Potential cost savings from reducing dependence on expensive fossil fuel imports.
By organizing the answer around these points, you can effectively discuss how non-conventional energy sources contribute to energy security in India, their environmental and economic impacts, and their role in complementing the country’s hydrocarbon resources.
Model Answer
Introduction
Non-conventional energy sources, also known as renewable energy sources, are essential for India’s energy security. These sources, including solar, wind, hydro, and biomass, are sustainable, environmentally friendly, and naturally replenishing. Their role is becoming increasingly significant in supplementing the country’s existing hydrocarbon resources.
Role in Energy Security
Non-conventional energy sources, such as solar and wind, contribute to diversifying India’s energy mix. As of 2021, renewable energy accounted for 24% of India’s total installed power capacity, with solar and wind power leading the way. The government’s target to achieve 175 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2022, including 100 GW from solar and 60 GW from wind, highlights the growing importance of these sources.
By utilizing non-conventional energy, India can reduce its dependency on imported hydrocarbons. Currently, India imports over 80% of its crude oil and around 45% of its natural gas needs. Solar power projects in states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu are already helping reduce reliance on coal-fired power and imported coal.
Non-conventional energy sources contribute significantly to environmental sustainability by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. For example, India’s renewable energy capacity has helped avoid approximately 49 million tons of CO2 emissions annually, showcasing the environmental advantages over traditional hydrocarbon resources.
Complementing Hydrocarbon Resources
Conclusion
Non-conventional energy sources are crucial in ensuring India’s energy security. By complementing the country’s hydrocarbon resources, they pave the way for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable energy future.