Roadmap for Answer Writing

1. Introduction:
   • Define non-conventional (renewable) energy sources.
   • Highlight the growing importance of these sources in India’s energy strategy for sustainable development, energy security, and climate change mitigation.
   • Briefly mention the government’s role in promoting renewable energy sources.
2. Importance of Non-Conventional Energy:
   • Energy Security: Reduce dependency on conventional fossil fuels (coal, oil).
   • Environmental Concerns: Mitigate the adverse effects of fossil fuels (air pollution, carbon emissions).
   • Economic Benefits: Foster economic growth by promoting clean energy industries and job creation.
3. Regional Emphasis on Non-Conventional Energy Sources:
   • Solar Energy:
     • Discuss the solar energy potential, especially in states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.
     • Mention large-scale solar parks and rooftop solar initiatives.
     • Fact: India set a target of 100 GW of solar power capacity under the National Solar Mission by 2022.
   • Wind Energy:
     • Focus on states with high wind potential: Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Gujarat.
     • Explain the role of wind farms and policies like feed-in tariffs and competitive bidding to boost wind energy production.
     • Fact: Tamil Nadu accounts for about 40% of India’s total wind energy generation capacity.
   • Hydropower:
     • Mention the development of small hydropower projects in states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Sikkim.
     • Fact: The government has been promoting the use of pumped storage hydropower to manage renewable energy supply.
   • Biomass and Bioenergy:
     • Discuss the use of agricultural waste and organic matter for energy production, particularly in states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
     • Fact: Biogas plants in rural areas are increasingly used to generate energy and manage waste.
   • Geothermal and Tidal Energy:
     • Briefly mention India’s potential in geothermal energy (states like Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir).
     • Discuss the development of tidal energy along the coastlines of Gujarat and Tamil Nadu.
     • Fact: India is exploring tidal energy as an alternative renewable resource, particularly in its coastal areas.
4. Government Initiatives:
   • National Solar Mission: Set a target of 100 GW of solar power by 2022.
   • Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM): Aimed at providing financial security to farmers by promoting solar energy.
   • Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO): Mandates electricity distribution companies to procure energy from renewable sources.
   • International Collaborations: Mention India’s participation in initiatives like the International Solar Alliance (ISA).
   • Fact: India is set to achieve a renewable energy capacity of 450 GW by 2030.
5. Challenges:
   • Inadequate infrastructure and grid integration for renewable energy.
   • High initial costs and financial challenges for setting up renewable energy projects.
   • Regional disparities in energy potential and development.
6. Conclusion:
   • Recap the increasing focus on non-conventional energy in India’s regions.
   • Mention how the emphasis on these energy sources supports sustainable development and reduces dependence on fossil fuels.
   • Highlight the role of government policies and international partnerships in driving the transition to renewable energy.

Facts to Include:

• Fact 1: India’s renewable energy capacity has reached approximately 150 GW, with solar and wind being the primary contributors.
• Fact 2: The National Solar Mission aims to achieve 100 GW of solar power capacity by 2022 and 450 GW by 2030.
• Fact 3: Tamil Nadu has the largest wind energy capacity in India, contributing significantly to the country’s wind power generation.
• Fact 4: India’s agricultural sector contributes to biomass energy production, utilizing crop residues and organic waste.
• Fact 5: India is exploring the potential for tidal energy along its coastlines, with pilot projects in states like Gujarat and Tamil Nadu.