Energy Resources
Energy is a fundamental component required for all human activities, including cooking, providing light, and powering vehicles and machinery in industries. The section categorizes energy resources into two main types: conventional and non-conventional sources.
Conventional Sources of Energy
- Coal: As the most abundant fossil fuel in India, coal remains vital for power generation and meeting the nation’s energy needs. It is formed from decayed plant material over millions of years and comes in various forms, including peat, lignite, bituminous, and anthracite.
- Petroleum: Following coal, petroleum is crucial as a fuel for heating and lighting, and serves as a raw material for numerous manufacturing industries. It is typically found in rock formations, particularly in anticlines and fault traps.
- Natural Gas: Found alongside petroleum deposits, natural gas serves as an important domestic and industrial fuel, and is increasingly used for generating electricity.
- Electricity: Generated from both hydropower and thermal sources, electricity is critical for development, with its per capita consumption often serving as a measure of a country's economic progress.
Non-Conventional Sources of Energy
- Solar Energy: With abundant sunlight, India has initiated significant solar projects to reduce reliance on traditional fuels. Photovoltaic technology converts sunlight directly into electricity.
- Wind Power: India has great potential for wind energy, with significant wind farms located primarily in Tamil Nadu.
- Biogas: Utilizing organic waste, biogas is produced for domestic use, offering an efficient energy source that also improves agricultural practices by enhancing manure quality.
- Geothermal Energy: This taps into the Earth’s internal heat to generate power, supported by projects in regions with high geothermal gradients.
- Tidal Energy: This form uses ocean tides to generate electricity, especially effective in specific coastal regions.
Conservation of Energy Resources
The necessity of energy conservation is stressed due to the growing demand and the finite nature of fossil fuels. The section advocates for promoting renewable energy and energy-efficient practices as key strategies for sustainable development.