Introduction to Renewable Energy Systems

The origin of fire, heat and light is energy. It is required to grow food grains which enable humans and
animals to survive and work. Energy causes the great universal movement of the earth on its axis and
around the sun. The term ‘energy’ can be described as ‘capacity to do work’. In early days, human beings
used their own strength in carrying loads and collecting their food, and later started depending on natural
energy sources like the power of falling water used for grinding corn and wind energy for sailing boats. In
industry, initially the energy source was fire that used to be obtained by burning wood. Subsequently,
wood became a source of charcoal that was used to extract metals from ores.
The fossil fuels were exploited as surface deposits of asphalt, peat and coal, oil from surface seepage, and
gas venting from underground reservoirs. The widespread use of petroleum began during the 20th century,
particularly for cars and buses, aeroplanes and industries. The use of energy got enhanced with the
invention of electricity and development of electric energy generating stations, consuming either fossil
fuels or potential energy of water. The Second World War ended in 1945 with the invention and use of
nuclear energy.

CONSERVATION AND FORMS OF ENERGY

The phrase ‘conservation of energy’ was coined and made popular by German physicists
Helmholtz and Joule. They demonstrated that energy could not be annihilated but only be
transformed. The following is a review of different forms of energy and their conversion from
one form to another.
Kinetic energy: The energy of an object in motion is called ‘kinetic energy’. If the mass of
an object is m and the object is moving with a velocity v, its kinetic energy in joules is
expressed
as: KE = (1/2)mv2, where m is in kg and v in m/s.
Potential energy: The energy which a body possesses as a result of its position in the earth’s
gravitational field is called ‘potential energy’ and is expressed in joules as: PE = mgh, where
the mass m is in kg, g is the acceleration due to gravity in m/s2, and h is the height in metre.
Heat energy: Heat is an intrinsic energy of all the combustible substances. It is the kinetic
energy of molecules. Heat energy, for example, can cause gases to expand, drive engines and
raise the temperature of water.
Chemical energy: Chemical energy is tied up in fossil fuels such as coal, oil and natural gas.
Fossil fuels are used to generate electricity, power vehicles and railway engines. Chemical
energy in the food helps us to sustain our life.
Radiant energy: Solar radiation is the manifestation of radiant energy that is received on the
earth. Radio waves, X-rays, infrared and ultraviolet electromagnetic radiations contain
radiant
energy.
Electrical energy: Electrical energy arises out of the arrangement of movement of electrons
to produce heat, magnetic field and electromagnetic radiations. It is a highly versatile form of
energy, and can be easily converted to other forms for utilization.
Nuclear energy: Matter can be changed into energy when larger atoms are split into smaller
ones (atomic fission) or when smaller ones combine to form larger atoms (atomic fusion).
Albert Einstein established that the amount of energy produced, when matter disappears, is
governed by the equation E = mc2, where E represents the energy generated, m is the loss in
mass of the system and c is the velocity of light (3 ¥ 108 m/s). This equation explains the
energy released when U235 nucleus undergoes fission in a nuclear reactor. It is also the basis
when a deuterium and tritium (12H and 13H) fuse in a thermonuclear reaction to release huge
amount of energy.
Energy and mass: Relation between energy and mass is given by E = mc2 It depicts that
mass can be converted into energy or mass and energy are equivalent. Till now, this has been
a hypothesis, but recently France’s National Centre for Scientific Research have set down the
calculations for estimating the mass of protons and neutrons, the particles at the nucleus of
atoms. Particle physics explains, protons, and neutrons comprise smaller particles known as
quarks which in turn are bound by gluons. The mass of gluons is zero, and the mass of quarks
is only 5%. Then, where is the balance 95%? The answer is; it comes from the energy, the
movement, and interactions of quarks and gluons. Thus, energy and msss are equivalent.

Renewable energy has become a cornerstone of modern energy systems, promising a

sustainable, clean, and secure future. In today's world, where climate change and
environmental degradation pose significant challenges, renewable energy systems offer a
practical solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, minimize reliance on depleting fossil
fuels, and promote energy security. This introductory unit provides a foundational
understanding of renewable energy, focusing on its importance, types, current status, and
potential in India.

Energy is the lifeblood of economic and industrial activities, and the demand for energy has
been growing rapidly due to urbanization, industrialization, and population growth.
Traditionally, this demand has been met through non-renewable energy sources like coal, oil,
and natural gas. However, these resources are finite and contribute significantly to
environmental problems, such as air pollution and global warming. Recognizing these
challenges, countries around the world, including India, are transitioning towards renewable
energy sources such as solar, wind, hydro, biomass, and geothermal energy.

This unit introduces the concept of primary energy sources and their classification into
renewable and non-renewable categories. Students will gain a clear understanding of the
differences between these types of energy sources and the advantages of using renewables
over traditional fossil fuels. The unit also delves into India's renewable energy landscape,
showcasing its vast potential in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, among others. Students
will explore how renewable energy resources are currently utilized in India and the
government’s ambitious goals for expanding renewable energy capacity in the future.

One of the critical aspects covered in this unit is the future potential of renewable energy
technologies. With advancements in solar panels, wind turbines, and biomass conversion
techniques, renewable energy systems are becoming more efficient and cost-effective. India,
with its abundant natural resources and proactive policy frameworks, stands at the forefront
of this global shift. From rural electrification projects to urban smart grids, renewable energy
is revolutionizing power production and distribution in the country.

Here is a table summarizing different types of renewable and non-renewable energy sources,
along with their inputs and outputs:
Type Energy Source Input Output
Renewable Solar Energy Sunlight Electricity, heat
Energy Wind Energy Wind (kinetic energy) Electricity
Flowing water
Hydropower (potential/gravitational Electricity
energy)
Organic materials (plants, Heat, electricity,
Biomass
wood, waste) biofuels
Geothermal
Heat from Earth's core Electricity, heat
Energy
Tidal Energy Movement of tides Electricity
 (kinetic/gravitational energy)
Wave Energy Ocean waves (kinetic energy) Electricity
Hydrogen (from Water and renewable Hydrogen (for fuel
renewable sources) electricity (electrolysis) or electricity)
Coal Coal (chemical energy) Heat, electricity
Natural gas (methane, other
Natural Gas Heat, electricity
hydrocarbons)
Fuels (petrol,
Oil (Petroleum) Crude oil diesel, kerosene),
Non-
electricity
Renewable
Heat, electricity
Energy
Nuclear Energy Uranium (nuclear fuel) (via nuclear
reactions)
Lignite Low-grade coal Heat, electricity
Partially decayed organic
Peat Heat, electricity
matter

Application of the Concept

The concept of renewable and non-renewable energy sources lies at the heart of sustainable
development and global energy transitions. It enables students and professionals to
understand the significance of balancing energy demands with environmental conservation,
economic feasibility, and social equity. This section explores various applications of
renewable and non-renewable energy sources in real-world scenarios.

1. Renewable Energy Applications

a) Solar Energy: Solar energy, derived from sunlight, has become a pivotal renewable
energy source. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are widely used for residential and industrial
power generation. Large-scale solar farms contribute significantly to national grids, while
rooftop solar installations promote decentralized energy production. Additionally, solar
thermal systems are used for heating water, powering air conditioning systems, and even
cooking in solar cookers.

b) Wind Energy: Wind energy is harnessed using wind turbines, which convert kinetic
energy from wind into electricity. It is particularly effective in regions with consistent wind
flow, such as coastal and hilly areas. Wind farms provide a renewable energy backbone for
power grids, while smaller wind systems are employed in off-grid applications and rural
electrification.

c) Hydropower: Hydropower utilizes the gravitational potential of flowing or stored water to

generate electricity. It is a reliable energy source, often forming the backbone of national
grids. Applications include large-scale dams, run-of-the-river systems, and pumped-storage
plants for balancing grid demand. Mini and micro-hydro systems are also popular for
community-scale power generation in remote areas.
d) Biomass Energy: Biomass energy uses organic materials, such as agricultural waste,
wood, and animal dung, to produce heat and electricity. It is used in rural areas for cooking
and heating. Modern biomass plants convert agricultural residues into biofuels, biogas, and
pellets, supporting energy needs while managing waste efficiently.

e) Geothermal Energy: Geothermal energy, derived from Earth's internal heat, is used for
electricity generation and direct heating. Geothermal plants provide base-load power,
ensuring consistent energy supply. Direct applications include greenhouse heating,
aquaculture, and industrial drying processes.

f) Tidal and Wave Energy: Tidal and wave energy systems are emerging technologies that
harness oceanic movements. Tidal barrages and underwater turbines generate electricity from
predictable tidal flows, while wave energy converters capture energy from surface waves.

2. Non-Renewable Energy Applications

a) Coal: Coal is predominantly used in thermal power plants to produce electricity. Industries
like cement, steel, and chemical manufacturing rely heavily on coal as a fuel source.
However, its environmental impact has prompted the development of cleaner coal
technologies.

b) Natural Gas: Natural gas is a cleaner alternative to coal and is widely used for electricity
generation, heating, and cooking. It also serves as a key feedstock for fertilizers and
petrochemicals. Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) enables transportation and storage, expanding
its reach.

c) Oil (Petroleum): Petroleum is indispensable for the transportation sector, providing fuels
like petrol, diesel, and jet fuel. It is also a primary input for petrochemical industries,
producing plastics, synthetic rubber, and pharmaceuticals.

d) Nuclear Energy: Nuclear power plants utilize uranium for electricity generation. They
produce large quantities of power with minimal greenhouse gas emissions. Nuclear energy
also supports medical applications, such as cancer treatment and diagnostic imaging.

e) Peat and Lignite: Peat and lignite are used as fuel sources in regions with limited access
to other fossil fuels. They support local energy demands, particularly in small-scale power
plants and residential heating systems.

3. Combined Applications and the Energy Transition

Renewable and non-renewable energy sources are often used in combination to meet energy
demands sustainably. Hybrid systems, such as solar-wind or solar-diesel setups, provide
reliable power in remote areas. Transitioning from non-renewable to renewable energy is
critical for mitigating climate change, reducing dependence on finite resources, and
promoting energy independence.
Quiz Questions (MCQs)

1. Which of the following is not a renewable energy source?

o a) Wind Energy
o b) Solar Energy
o c) Nuclear Energy
o d) Geothermal Energy
Answer: c) Nuclear Energy
2. What is the primary input for hydropower energy generation?
o a) Sunlight
o b) Flowing water
o c) Biomass
o d) Wind
Answer: b) Flowing water
3. Which renewable energy source relies on Earth's internal heat?
o a) Biomass
o b) Geothermal Energy
o c) Solar Energy
o d) Wind Energy
Answer: b) Geothermal Energy
4. Which of the following non-renewable energy sources produces the least
greenhouse gas emissions?
o a) Coal
o b) Natural Gas
o c) Oil
o d) Peat
Answer: b) Natural Gas
5. What is the main disadvantage of non-renewable energy sources?
o a) High cost
o b) Abundance of resources
o c) Environmental degradation
o d) Technological limitations
Answer: c) Environmental degradation

Two Mark Questions

1. Define renewable energy.

o Answer: Renewable energy is derived from natural resources that replenish
themselves over time, such as sunlight, wind, and water. These sources are
sustainable and have minimal environmental impact.
2. What is the significance of solar energy?
o Answer: Solar energy is significant as it provides a clean, abundant, and
sustainable source of electricity and heat, reducing dependence on fossil fuels
and greenhouse gas emissions.
3. Give examples of biomass energy inputs.
 o Answer: Inputs for biomass energy include agricultural residues, wood,
animal dung, and organic waste.
4. What are the environmental benefits of using wind energy?
o Answer: Wind energy is environmentally beneficial as it generates electricity
without greenhouse gas emissions, reduces air pollution, and preserves finite
natural resources.
5. State one advantage of hydropower.
o Answer: Hydropower provides a reliable and consistent source of renewable
energy with the ability to store and regulate water for electricity generation.

Sixteen Mark Question

Explain the differences between renewable and non-renewable energy sources, and
discuss their inputs, outputs, and applications in detail.

Answer:

 Renewable Energy Sources:

o Renewable energy comes from natural processes that are constantly
replenished.
o Examples: Solar, wind, hydropower, biomass, geothermal, tidal, and wave
energy.
o Inputs: Sunlight, wind, flowing water, organic materials, and Earth's heat.
o Outputs: Electricity, heat, biofuels, and hydrogen.
o Applications: Power generation (solar panels, wind turbines), heating (biomass
stoves, geothermal systems), and transportation (biofuels).
 Non-Renewable Energy Sources:
o Non-renewable energy is derived from resources that are finite and deplete
over time.
o Examples: Coal, natural gas, oil, nuclear, peat, and lignite.
o Inputs: Fossil fuels (coal, oil, gas) and uranium.
o Outputs: Heat, electricity, and fuels (petrol, diesel, kerosene).
o Applications: Electricity generation (coal plants, nuclear reactors),
transportation (petroleum fuels), and industrial processes (natural gas for
fertilizers).
 Key Differences:
o Renewable: Sustainable, environmentally friendly, lower emissions, and
inexhaustible.
o Non-Renewable: Finite, high environmental impact, and significant
emissions.
 Applications in Combination:
o Hybrid energy systems use both types for reliability and sustainability.
o Transitioning to renewable energy is essential for reducing environmental
impact and achieving energy security.

In conclusion, both renewable and non-renewable energy sources have unique characteristics,
and their integration ensures a balanced approach to global energy needs.