Energy:

As the definition of energy states it is the power derived from the utilization of physical
or chemical resources, especially to provide light and heat or to work machines, and runs
synonymous with Power. Energy can be classified into renewable and nonrenewable energy
based on the source of energy derived from them. Also the law of conservation of energy states
Energy can Neither be created nor be destroyed, which also is the first law of
thermodynamics.

Renewable Energy: The very definition of renewable energy states an energy from a

source that is not depleted when used, such as wind or solar power, tidal energy, and so
on. The sources of renewable energy are plentiful and are replenished from on a
human timescale, i.e. the sources of energy come back again into existence within a
mans age, or conversely the depletion of the source of renewable energy is minimal
within human existential time limit.

Benefits and Challenges within Indian Context

The benefits of renewable energy are universal ranging from reduced carbon footprint,
less environmental impact, and a lower cost of utilization. However, the challenges lay
far ahead ranging from efficiency in terms of energy production and transmission, and
100% utilization of energy, and reduced risk of production.

In India, the energy consumption index stands at 19% of worlds total energy produced
in various domains ranging from agriculture, transportation, and industries. About 95%
of energy produced in India is from nonrenewable sources from fossil fuels, nuclear
energy etc.

Opportunities in Renewable Energy Sector in Indian Context:

Energy from biomass biogas and ethanol: Biogas obtained from animal waste
particularly cowdung is very useful as carbon emission from animal waste accounts to
14% of net carbon output and extracting power from direct burning of methane from
biomass would lead to significant reduction in carbon emission and could provide a
cleaner and alternative fuel. Also methane could be directly burned to light houses and
stoves and could reduce the dependence on LPG or liquefied petroleum gas.

Solar Energy: Converting the infrared energy from solar radiations can be put into good
use in India as India has a minimum of 9-hour sunshine or daylight, which could help
power photovoltaic cells or can also heat up water reservoir and reduce dependency on
fossil fuels providing a cleaner alternative fuel.

Solar photovoltaic cells are used in applications to convert sunlight directly into power
used in appliances.

Algal fuel: Biodiesel can be obtained from various strains of algae, which can be used
in internal combustion engines and also in stoves for cooking purposes. The carbon
footprint of algal fuel (spirulina) is not very high, but is considered a reliable source of
energy, which could be replenished in a short time.

Scope of renewable energy in India:

Entrepreneurship opportunities in manufacturing and maintenance of equipments
related to renewable energy production.

Production of power directly from renewable energy resources.

Reduction in pollution levels which would invite more subsidies from the government
sector and funding organizations.