UNIT 1- Part B ​

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1. Outline the domestic, industrial, commercial, agriculture, and transportation
energy scenario of India.

India's energy scenario is diverse and highly segmented across sectors, reflecting the country's growing
energy needs and economic priorities. Here's an outline of the energy usage patterns:

Domestic Energy Scenario:

●​ Urban Areas:
○​ Electricity is the primary source for lighting, air conditioning, and appliances. The
increasing use of energy-efficient appliances such as LED lights and star-rated devices is
reducing household energy consumption.
○​ Cleaner fuels like LPG and piped natural gas (PNG) are commonly used for cooking.
Rooftop solar systems are also gaining traction for energy self-sufficiency.
●​ Rural Areas:
○​ A significant portion of rural households still relies on traditional biomass fuels such as
firewood, cow dung, and crop residues for cooking and heating, contributing to indoor air
pollution.
○​ Efforts like the Saubhagya Scheme aim to ensure last-mile electrification in villages.

Industrial Energy Scenario:

●​ Industries account for the highest energy consumption in India, primarily in energy-intensive
sectors like steel, cement, aluminum, and textiles.
●​ Conventional Sources:
○​ Coal is the dominant source of energy, with thermal power plants generating the bulk of
electricity.
●​ Renewable Energy Adoption:
○​ Solar, wind, and biomass energy are increasingly integrated into industrial operations,
reducing dependency on fossil fuels and cutting carbon emissions.
○​ Industries are also adopting energy-efficient technologies such as combined heat and
power (CHP) systems.

Commercial Energy Scenario:

●​ Rapid urbanization and economic growth have led to a surge in energy demand for commercial
establishments like malls, office complexes, and hotels.
●​ Energy Consumption:
○​ Electricity powers IT infrastructure, air conditioning, and lighting. Diesel generators serve
as backup power sources during grid outages.
●​ Energy Efficiency:
○​ Solar PV installations on rooftops and energy-efficient building designs (green buildings)
are reducing dependency on conventional energy sources.

Agricultural Energy Scenario:

●​ Electricity and Diesel Usage:

 ○​ Energy is primarily consumed for water pumping and mechanization of agricultural
processes. Farmers rely on grid electricity and diesel pumps.
●​ Renewable Energy Solutions:
○​ Solar-powered water pumps are being promoted to reduce diesel dependency and
enhance irrigation efficiency.
○​ Biomass energy is also used in rural areas for drying crops and other post-harvest
processes.

Transportation Energy Scenario:

●​ The transportation sector heavily depends on petroleum products like petrol and diesel, making it
a major contributor to energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
●​ Transition to Clean Energy:
○​ India is witnessing a significant push toward electric vehicles (EVs) with incentives under
the FAME (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles) scheme.
○​ Public transportation systems, such as metro rail and electrified railways, are also
reducing fossil fuel dependency.

2. Elaborate in detail about the present conventional and renewable energy status
of India.

India has a dynamic energy landscape, driven by the dual goals of meeting growing energy demands
and reducing carbon emissions.

Conventional Energy Status:

1.​ Coal:
○​ India is the second-largest consumer of coal globally, with over 65% of electricity
generated from coal-fired power plants.
○​ Domestic reserves are abundant, but imported coal is often required to meet demand due
to quality and quantity constraints.
2.​ Oil and Natural Gas:
○​ India imports approximately 85% of its crude oil requirements, making the country
vulnerable to price fluctuations in global markets.
○​ Natural gas accounts for a smaller share of energy production but is widely used in
industries, power generation, and as compressed natural gas (CNG) in vehicles.
3.​ Nuclear Energy:
○​ Nuclear energy contributes about 2% of the total electricity generation, with plans to
expand capacity for a stable and clean power supply.

Renewable Energy Status:

India is a global leader in renewable energy production, with ambitious targets to reduce reliance on
fossil fuels.

1.​ Solar Energy:​

○​ India’s installed solar capacity is over 84 GW, including 23 GW of solar PV systems.

 ○​ The government aims to achieve 100 GW of solar power by 2022 through initiatives like
rooftop solar programs and large-scale solar parks.
2.​ Wind Energy:​

○​ With an installed capacity of over 34 GW, wind energy is primarily concentrated in states
like Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Maharashtra.
○​ Offshore wind farms are being explored as a potential avenue for expanding wind energy.
3.​ Biomass Energy:​

○​ Biomass contributes 8.8 GW to India’s renewable energy mix, utilizing agricultural

residues and industrial waste to generate power.
4.​ Hydropower:​

○​ Small hydro plants contribute 4.5 GW to the grid, with additional capacity being developed
in mountainous regions.
5.​ Emerging Technologies:​

○​ India is exploring geothermal, tidal, and wave energy, with pilot projects under evaluation
for feasibility.

Challenges and Progress:

●​ Recent investments in renewable energy, particularly solar PV, have outpaced fossil fuel
investments.
●​ India’s ambitious targets include achieving 175 GW of renewable capacity by 2022 and 450 GW
by 2030.
●​ Large-scale auctions and policy frameworks are driving down renewable energy costs, enabling
widespread adoption.

3. Briefly explain the limitations of Renewable Energy (RE) sources.

Despite their numerous advantages, renewable energy sources face the following limitations:

1.​ Intermittency:​

○​ Solar and wind energy depend on weather conditions, leading to fluctuations in energy
generation. For instance, solar panels cannot generate electricity at night or during cloudy
weather.
2.​ High Initial Costs:​

○​ The upfront costs for installing renewable energy systems, such as solar panels, wind
turbines, and biomass plants, are significantly higher than conventional energy systems.
3.​ Land Use:​

○​ Large-scale renewable energy projects require substantial land, which may lead to habitat
destruction and conflicts over land use.
4.​ Energy Storage Challenges:​
 ○​ Energy storage solutions like batteries are required to address the intermittency of
renewables. These systems are still expensive and have a limited lifespan.
5.​ Transmission and Distribution:​

○​ Renewable energy plants are often located in remote areas, requiring extensive
transmission infrastructure to connect to the grid, increasing costs and losses.
6.​ Resource Availability:​

○​ Certain renewable sources, like wind and geothermal, are geographically dependent,
limiting their widespread applicability.
7.​ Maintenance and Reliability:​

○​ Equipment such as solar panels and wind turbines requires regular maintenance, and
technological advancements are necessary to improve efficiency and durability.​
​

4. Discuss in detail about Per Capita Energy Consumption in India.

Introduction:

●​ Per capita energy consumption refers to the average amount of energy used by an individual in a
year. It is an indicator of a country's development and living standards.

Current Scenario:

●​ As of 2019, India's per capita energy consumption is around 1,181 kWh/year, which is
significantly lower than the global average of 3,200 kWh/year.
●​ Despite being the third-largest energy producer, India's per capita electricity consumption is still
among the lowest in the world due to its large population and uneven energy access.

Factors Influencing Low Consumption:

1.​ Rural Energy Access:

○​ Rural areas often rely on non-commercial sources like firewood, cow dung, and
agricultural residues for energy needs.
2.​ Economic Development:
○​ India's growing industrial sector increases total energy demand, but widespread poverty
and underdeveloped regions limit individual consumption.
3.​ Population Growth:
○​ The large population dilutes per capita energy availability.

Implications and Future Trends:

●​ With rapid urbanization and rising incomes, per capita energy consumption is expected to grow.
●​ Government initiatives like Saubhagya (last-mile electrification) and UDAY (improving power
distribution) aim to increase energy access and efficiency.

Relevance to Development:
 ●​ A higher per capita energy consumption generally indicates better quality of life, improved
education, and healthcare facilities.

5. Explain why it is necessary to develop non-conventional methods of

generating electrical energy.

Introduction:

●​ Non-conventional energy sources include solar, wind, biomass, and geothermal energy. These
are vital for addressing energy security and environmental concerns.

Necessity of Non-Conventional Energy Sources:

1.​ Depletion of Fossil Fuels:

○​ Conventional sources like coal, oil, and natural gas are finite and rapidly depleting due to
rising energy demands.
○​ India's heavy reliance on imported oil increases its vulnerability to global price
fluctuations.
2.​ Environmental Impact:
○​ Burning fossil fuels contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and climate
change.
○​ Non-conventional energy sources produce little to no emissions and are environmentally
sustainable.
3.​ Energy Security:
○​ Renewable energy reduces dependency on imported fuels, enhancing national energy
security.
4.​ Cost Reduction:
○​ Technological advancements have significantly reduced the cost of generating electricity
from renewables, making them competitive with fossil fuels.
5.​ Accessibility in Remote Areas:
○​ Non-conventional methods like solar and wind power can bring electricity to remote and
rural areas without grid connectivity.
6.​ Climate Commitments:
○​ India's commitment to the Paris Agreement includes achieving 40% of its power capacity
from non-fossil fuels and reducing emissions intensity by 33-35% by 2030.

Government Initiatives:

●​ The establishment of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has been instrumental
in promoting renewable energy projects and policies in India.

6. Explain in detail about the potential of Waste-to-Energy in India.

Introduction:

●​ Waste-to-energy (WTE) refers to converting waste materials into electricity, heat, or fuel. It
addresses waste management challenges and provides an alternative energy source.
Potential in India:

1.​ Large Waste Generation:​

○​ India generates about 62 million tonnes of municipal solid waste annually, of which
70-80% is collected, but only 20-25% is processed.
○​ Major metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore produce substantial waste
that can be utilized for energy recovery.
2.​ Untapped Resources:​

○​ Urban solid waste, agricultural residues, and industrial waste have significant untapped
energy potential.
○​ Methane recovery from landfills and biomass gasification are promising technologies.
3.​ Existing Infrastructure:​

○​ India has over 200 operational WTE plants with a combined capacity of 300 MW, but the
full potential is estimated to be around 2,500 MW.

Advantages:

●​ Reduces landfill waste and environmental pollution.

●​ Provides a reliable and localized source of energy.
●​ Generates employment in waste collection and processing sectors.

Challenges:

●​ High capital investment and operational costs.

●​ Low calorific value of waste due to high organic and moisture content.
●​ Public opposition and lack of awareness about WTE technologies.

Government Support:

●​ The Swachh Bharat Mission emphasizes waste segregation and treatment.

●​ Policies like Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) incentivize waste-to-energy projects.

Future Outlook:

●​ Integration of smart city initiatives with WTE projects can enhance urban waste management and
energy generation.
●​ Improved waste segregation and collection systems will unlock the full potential of WTE in India.

PART C

1. Explain in detail about the Future Energy Plans of India.

India’s energy policies aim to meet growing energy demands sustainably while transitioning toward a
low-carbon economy. These policies address energy security, accessibility, affordability, and
environmental sustainability.

Renewable Energy Goals:

 1.​ Expansion of Renewable Capacity:​

○​ India aims to achieve 175 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2022 and 450 GW by
2030, with significant contributions from solar and wind energy​​.
○​ Plans include 100 GW from solar energy, 60 GW from wind energy, and smaller
contributions from biomass and small hydroelectric projects.
2.​ Solar Power Initiatives:​

○​ Promotion of rooftop solar installations and large-scale solar parks.

○​ Introduction of floating solar projects to minimize land usage.
3.​ Wind Power Projects:​

○​ Offshore wind energy projects are being developed to utilize coastal areas.
4.​ Grid Expansion:​

○​ Strengthening the power grid to integrate renewable energy sources and ensure reliability.

Energy Efficiency and Demand Management:

1.​ Efficient Appliances and Infrastructure:​

○​ Adoption of LED lighting systems and energy-efficient appliances under programs like
UJALA.
○​ Smart grid development and deployment of energy-saving technologies.
2.​ Demand Response Systems:​

○​ Use of dynamic pricing and real-time monitoring to balance energy demand and supply.

Transitioning from Fossil Fuels:

1.​ Reduction in Coal Dependency:​

○​ Encouragement of cleaner coal technologies and phasing out inefficient thermal power
plants.
○​ Diversification of fuel sources to include natural gas and renewables.
2.​ Electric Mobility:​

○​ Government incentives for electric vehicles (EVs) under the FAME (Faster Adoption and
Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles) scheme.
○​ Electrification of public transport systems.

Climate Commitments:

1.​ Paris Agreement Targets:​

○​ Reduction of emission intensity of GDP by 33-35% by 2030 compared to 2005 levels.

○​ Increase the share of non-fossil fuel-based capacity in total power generation to 40%.
2.​ Carbon Sequestration:​

○​ Programs to enhance forest cover and create carbon sinks.

2. Summarize the distinct types of non-conventional energy sources.

Non-conventional energy sources, also known as renewable energy sources, are naturally replenished
and environmentally sustainable. India actively promotes their use to meet energy demands and reduce
environmental impacts.

Types of Non-Conventional Energy Sources:

1.​ Solar Energy:​

○​ Harnessed using photovoltaic (PV) cells or solar thermal systems.

○​ Applications include electricity generation, water heating, and desalination.
2.​ Wind Energy:​

○​ Generated by converting kinetic energy of wind into electricity using wind turbines.
○​ Most effective in regions with high wind speeds, such as coastal areas and hilly terrains.
3.​ Biomass Energy:​

○​ Produced from organic materials like agricultural waste, wood, and animal dung.
○​ Used for power generation, cooking, and as biofuels.
4.​ Hydropower (Small Hydro Projects):​

○​ Utilizes flowing water to generate electricity, particularly in small-scale installations.

○​ Suitable for hilly regions and rural electrification.
5.​ Geothermal Energy:​

○​ Exploits heat stored beneath the earth’s surface for power generation and heating
applications.
○​ Limited to areas with geothermal hotspots.
6.​ Tidal and Wave Energy:​

○​ Uses the kinetic energy of ocean tides and waves to generate electricity.
○​ Potentially significant in coastal areas.
7.​ Hydrogen Energy:​

○​ Hydrogen is produced using electrolysis powered by renewable sources and used as a

clean fuel.
○​ Promising for transportation and industrial applications.​

PART A

1. What is commercial energy?

Commercial energy includes energy sources that are traded in the market for monetary value, such as
coal, oil, natural gas, and electricity. These are primarily used in industries, transportation, and
households for economic activities.
2. List a few Renewable Energy sources.

●​ Solar energy
●​ Wind energy
●​ Biomass energy
●​ Hydropower (small hydro)
●​ Geothermal energy

3. What is meant by Per capita energy consumption?

Per capita energy consumption is the total energy consumed by a nation divided by its population. It
reflects the average energy usage per individual and is an indicator of a country's development.

4. What is the total installed capacity of India?

India’s total installed capacity is over 404 GW as of 2023, with significant contributions from coal,
renewable energy, nuclear, and natural gas sources.

5. Define Primary and Secondary Energy.

●​ Primary Energy: Natural energy resources like coal, crude oil, natural gas, and solar energy
used directly.
●​ Secondary Energy: Energy derived from primary sources, such as electricity or refined
petroleum products.

6. List the environmental impact of fossil fuels.

●​ Air pollution from CO2, SO2, and NOx emissions.

●​ Contribution to climate change through greenhouse gas emissions.
●​ Land degradation from mining and drilling activities.
●​ Water pollution due to spills and runoff.

7. What is the approximate amount of total power generation in India?

India generates approximately 1,700 TWh (Terawatt-hours) of electricity annually, with a mix of thermal,
renewable, and nuclear energy sources.
8. Compare conventional and non-conventional energy sources.

9. List limitations of Renewable energy sources.

●​ Intermittency due to weather dependence.

●​ High initial costs for setup.
●​ Large land area requirements for projects like solar farms.
●​ Limited efficiency and storage challenges.

10. Summarize the future energy plans of India.

India plans to achieve 450 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, focusing on solar and wind
energy expansion. Initiatives include rooftop solar projects, electric mobility, and enhanced energy
efficiency measures to meet climate commitments.

11. Write about the availability of conventional energy sources in the world.

Conventional energy sources like coal, oil, and natural gas are unevenly distributed globally, with
reserves concentrated in regions like the Middle East (oil), North America (natural gas), and Asia-Pacific
(coal). These sources are finite and depleting rapidly due to high consumption rates.

12. Generalize the energy scenario of conventional energy sources.

Conventional energy dominates global energy consumption, providing over 80% of the world's primary
energy. However, reliance on fossil fuels contributes to environmental degradation and geopolitical
tensions due to resource distribution disparities.

13. Explain the potential of various Renewable energy sources in India.

India has significant renewable energy potential, including 100 GW solar energy, 60 GW wind energy, 20
GW from biomass, and 5 GW from small hydro projects. Investments in these sources are growing to
meet energy demands sustainably.

14. Enumerate on total solar energy received in India.

India receives about 5,000 trillion kWh of solar radiation annually, with an average of 4-7 kWh/m²/day
across most regions. This makes solar energy a highly viable and abundant resource for renewable
energy projects.

15. Name the several types of fossil fuels in the world.

●​ Coal: Used for power generation and industrial processes.

●​ Oil: Widely used in transportation and petrochemical industries.
●​ Natural Gas: Utilized for electricity, heating, and as industrial fuel.
●​ Peat: A precursor to coal, used in some regions as fuel.