Question

Why should non-conventional sources of energy be used in India for sustainable development? Explain with examples.

Hint:

Non-conventional energy sources are the key to India’s energy security and environmental sustainability. The focus should be on expanding the use of solar, wind, and other renewable resources to meet growing energy demands.

Answer 1

India's sustainable development hinges on non-conventional energy sources like solar, wind, biomass, and tidal power for key reasons: - Depleting Conventional Sources: Finite resources such as coal and petroleum pose risks to long-term energy security. Renewable alternatives offer a constant energy supply. - Environmental Advantages: Traditional energy sources release greenhouse gases, contributing to pollution and climate change. Non-conventional sources, including solar and wind, are environmentally benign. - Economic Viability: While initial setup costs for renewable systems, especially solar panels, can be substantial, they lead to reduced long-term energy expenses and savings, particularly in isolated regions. - Illustrative Cases: Solar power is extensively utilized in India, powering off-grid rural areas. States like Tamil Nadu and Gujarat, with strong wind resources, harness wind energy. Biomass energy, derived from agricultural waste, is increasingly adopted for rural cooking and heating. Embracing non-conventional energy is vital for India's sustainable and clean energy future, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lessening environmental damage.