India is the third largest consumer of energy in the world. Its diverse energy sources are what make it so special. Energy requirements in India have been increasing rapidly due to urbanization and economic growth. This article discusses energy resources in India and their current significance.
1. Energy Resources Types
1.1. Non-Renewable Resources
1.1.1. 1.1.1.
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CoalIndia is the world’s second-largest coal producer and consumer. Jharkhand is the largest coal producing state, followed by Chhattisgarh and Odisha. India consumes approximately 55% coal.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartCoal is the primary fuel used in Pithead Thermal Power Stations, which are located across states like Haryana.
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OilIndia imports crude oil to meet around 85% its needs. Mumbai High, Assam and other major oil producing areas are included.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartRefineries, such as Jamnagar Refinery located in Gujarat are critical for the oil-processing industry.
- Natural GasThe natural gas sector accounts for about 6% in India’s energy consumption. The Krishna-Godavari Basin and Gujarat are important sources.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to Start: The Hazira-Vijaypur-Jagdishpur (HVJ) pipeline facilitates the transportation of natural gas.
1.2. Renewable Resources
1.2.1. Solar Energy
- You can also find out more about the potential of this website.India’s geographical position has endowed it with a wealth of solar power. Around 300 sunny days are recorded in the country each year.
- The ProjectsSolar Park Scheme is aiming to generate 20,000 MW by 2022.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartBhadla Solar Park, in Rajasthan, is the largest solar park in the world with 2,245MW of capacity.
1.2.2. Wind Energy
- You can also find out more about the potential of this website.India’s wind potential is estimated at 302 GW. Tamil Nadu is home to the majority of India’s wind farms.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartKanyakumari Wind Farm is one of the major contributors to the Renewable Energy Quota in Tamil Nadu.
1.2.3. Biomass
- UseThe biomass is used for energy production. This includes agricultural residues as well as animal and organic waste. The use of biomass in the rural sector is crucial.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartBiomass power generation plant in Madhya Pradesh turns agricultural wastes into energy.
1.2.4. Hydro Power
- ContributionIn India, hydro power represents approximately 12 % of all installed capacity. There is a lot of untapped potential for India in this area.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartThe Bhakra Nangal Dam, located in Himachal Pradesh, provides both irrigation and hydroelectric energy.
2. Energy Mix India
India’s energy mix is heavily dominated by fossil-fuels. But efforts are under way to boost the proportion of renewable sources. This chart shows the contribution of each energy source.
| The Source | Percentage Share |
|---|---|
| Coal | 55 |
| Oil | 30 |
| Natural Gas | 6 |
| Wind | 10 |
| Solar | 3 |
| Hydro | 12 |
| Biomass | 4 |
3. Energy Policy Framework
- National Energy PolicyLaunched in order to improve energy access and ensure security of energy.
- Renewable Energy PolicyNational Solar Mission is aiming for a 100-GW capacity by the year 2022.
- Integrated Energy PolicyFocuses energy resources on achieving sustainable economic growth.
4. Energy Resources Challenges in India
4.1. Environmental Concerns
- Extraction and combustion of fossil fuels contribute to air pollution and other health concerns.
4.2. Technology Barriers
- Inefficient energy harvesting is caused by a lack of technology.
4.3. Infrastructure Issues
- Energy access is hampered in rural areas by an inadequate energy distribution and transmission infrastructure.
4.4. Economic constraints
- The high initial investment required for renewable energy can discourage investors.
4.5. Challenges in Policy and Regulation
- Energy production and investment can suffer from fluctuations in the policy and regulatory environment.
5. Future of Energy Resources in India
India’s future energy resources lie in practices that are sustainable. India’s potential for energy can be tapped by using technological advances, implementing reforms in policy, and financing renewable energy.
5.1. India’s commitment to the Paris Agreement
India pledges to boost its non-fossil energy capacity by 500 GW and to generate 40% of the total electricity from renewable sources.
5.2. Energy Storage: Innovations
Energy storage can improve the reliability of solar and wind energy systems.
5.3. Smart Grid Technology
Smart grids can improve the efficiency of energy distribution and reduce losses.
FAQs
1. How much energy is consumed in India today?
India is heavily reliant upon coal for its energy, then oil, natural gas and renewables such as solar and biomass.
2. How much energy in India is produced from renewable sources
In 2023, solar, biomass and wind energy will contribute 22% of India’s total electricity mix.
3. How is India promoting renewable energy?
India’s government has launched several initiatives, including the National Solar Mission and Wind Energy Mission, in order to increase renewable energy production. These schemes are being implemented alongside other frameworks, like Perform, Achieve and Trade, (PAT), which promotes energy efficiency.
4. India’s energy challenges
The challenges include the pollution caused by fossil fuels and infrastructure deficiencies, as well as technological gaps and limitations in investment in renewable energies.
5. What is the role of biomass in India’s energy sector
About 4% of India’s total energy is derived from biomass. It is a way of generating energy that uses agricultural waste. This method works well in rural areas.
6. What impact does coal mining have on the environment of India?
The mining of coal is a major contributor to soil erosion and water pollution. The burning of coal emits greenhouse gases that impact air quality and contribute to climate change.
7. How can India achieve a balance between economic growth and sustainability of the environment?
India’s economic development can be achieved without harming the environment by investing in renewable technologies, encouraging energy efficiency, and adopting strict environmental regulations.
8. What are the solar energy potentials in India
India’s climate and geography are conducive to solar energy, with a potential of approximately 750GW.
9. What steps is the government taking to increase energy access in rural regions?
Saubhagya is a scheme that focuses on renewable decentralized energy to bring electricity to rural areas.
10. What are the implications of the National Energy Policy (NEP)?
According to India’s commitments on the international stage, India has developed a National Energy Policy that aims at ensuring a mix of energy, enhancing energy access and protecting the environment.
Discussions on India’s energy resources make it obvious that, while challenges are present, opportunities are abundant to create a more efficient and sustainable energy system. India’s position in renewable energy can be elevated with the proper implementation of policies, and investments in infrastructure.
