AAMEC OEE 351RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEM III/V

OEE351 - RENEWABLE ENERGY 1SYSTEM

UNIT 1 - INTRODUCTION

Primary energy sources, renewable vs. non-renewable primary energy sources, renewable
energy resources in India, Current usage of renewable energy sources in India, future potential
of renewable energy in power production and development of renewable energy technologies.

Primary energy sources

Primary energy sources are the natural resources from which we directly obtain energy.
They are the starting point for all other forms of energy, such as electricity, heat, and transportation
fuels. There are many different types of primary energy sources, each with its own advantages and
disadvantages.

Nonrenewable Resources

A nonrenewable resource is a natural resource that cannot be readily replenished on a

human timescale. This means that once they are used up, they are gone forever. Some examples of
nonrenewable resources include:

Fossil fuels:
These are the most common type of primary energy source, and they include coal, oil, and
natural gas. Fossil fuels are formed from the remains of plants and animals that died millions of
years ago. They are a non-renewable resource, which means that they will eventually run out. The
burning of fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which contribute to climate
change.

Nuclear energy:
Nuclear energy is produced by splitting atoms in a process called nuclear fission. This
process releases a large amount of energy, which can be used to generate electricity. Nuclear energy
is a relatively clean source of energy, but it produces radioactive waste that must be carefully
managed. There is also the risk of nuclear accidents.

Renewable energy:
Renewable energy sources are those that are naturally replenished on a human
timescale. They include solar energy, wind energy, hydropower, geothermal energy, and
biomass. Renewable energy sources are becoming increasingly important as we try to reduce our
reliance on fossil fuels and combat climate change.
Other sources:
There are a number of other potential primary energy sources, such as tidal energy, wave
energy, and ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC). These sources are still in the early stages of
development, but they could play a role in the future energy mix.

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The choice of primary energy sources depends on a number of factors, such as cost,
availability, reliability, and environmental impact. As we move towards a more sustainable future,
it is important to choose primary energy sources that are clean, efficient, and renewable.

HOW IS COAL MADE?

HOW ARE OIL AND GAS MADE ?

Thermal Power Plant Working Principle

Thermal power plants utilize the fundamental principle of converting thermal energy into
electricity. Here's a breakdown of how it works:

1. Fuel Combustion:
The process starts with burning fossil fuels like coal, oil, or natural gas in a furnace. This
combustion releases a significant amount of heat.

2. Heat Transfer:
The generated heat is transferred to a boiler containing water. This water absorbs the heat
and turns into high-pressure, high-temperature steam.
3. Steam Turbine:
The superheated steam is then directed towards a turbine, which is essentially a
large, rotating machine with blades. The high-pressure steam pushes against the blades, causing the
turbine to spin rapidly.

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4. Generator:
The rotating turbine shaft is
connected to an electric generator. As
the turbine spins, the generator converts
the mechanical energy of rotation into
electrical energy. This is based on the
principle of electromagnetic induction.

5. Condenser:
After passing through the turbine, the steam loses pressure and temperature. This low-
pressure steam is directed to a condenser, where it's cooled down further, often using circulating
water. This cooling process condenses the steam back into water, which is then pumped back to the
boiler to start the cycle again.

6. Electricity Transmission:
The generated electricity is sent through transformers to increase its voltage for efficient
transmission over long distances. Finally, it's distributed to homes, businesses, and industries
through power lines.

Types of Thermal Power Plants:

There are different types of thermal power plants based on the heat source and technology
used. Some common types include coal-fired, gas-fired, and combined cycle (combining gas
turbine and steam turbine).

Efficiency: Thermal power plants have varying levels of efficiency, which reflects the amount of
fuel energy converted into electricity. Efforts are ongoing to improve efficiency through advanced
technologies and cleaner fuels.

Environmental Impact: Burning fossil fuels in thermal power plants releases greenhouse gases
and pollutants, contributing to climate change and air pollution. Renewable energy sources are
increasingly being seen as alternatives to reduce this impact.

Lignite deposits in India

Tamil Nadu, Pudhucherry, Gujarat, Rajasthan and Jammu,Kashmir.
Air Pollution:
Greenhouse gases: Burning fossil fuels releases significant amounts of carbon dioxide, the main
greenhouse gas contributing to climate change. Other greenhouse gases like methane and nitrous
oxide can also be emitted.

Nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur oxides (SOx): These gases contribute to acid rain, which harms
ecosystems and damages buildings. NOx also contributes to smog formation, affecting air quality
and respiratory health.
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Particulate matter (PM): Fine particles released from combustion can penetrate deep into
lungs, causing respiratory problems like asthma and heart disease.

Water Pollution:

Thermal pollution: Heated water discharged from cooling systems can harm aquatic life by
altering water temperature and oxygen levels.

Water contamination: Pollutants like heavy metals and trace elements from fuel combustion can
contaminate water sources, affecting aquatic life and potentially making water unsuitable for
drinking or irrigation.

Land Pollution:

Ash disposal: Coal-fired plants generate large amounts of fly ash and bottom ash, requiring proper
disposal in landfills. Improper management can lead to dust emissions and leaching of harmful
elements into soil and water.

Oil spills and leaks: Accidental spills or leaks of oil or other fuels used in power plants can
contaminate soil and water resources.

Overall Impact:
The pollution from thermal power plants can have various negative consequences on the
environment and human health:

Climate change: Increased greenhouse gas emissions contribute to global warming, impacting
weather patterns, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events.

Respiratory problems: Air pollutants like PM and NOx can cause respiratory
illnesses, bronchitis, and asthma, particularly affecting vulnerable populations like children and the
elderly.

Acidification and eutrophication: Acid rain from NOx and SOx harms aquatic ecosystems and
damages forests and crops.

Biodiversity loss: Water pollution and habitat destruction can threaten aquatic life and impact food
chains.

NUCLEAR ENERGY

Nuclear power plants are facilities that generate electricity using nuclear fission, a process in
which the nucleus of an atom is split, releasing a large amount of energy. This energy is then used
to heat water, which turns to steam and drives turbines that generate electricity.

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Here are the main components of a nuclear power plant:

Reactor: The reactor is the heart of the power plant, where nuclear fission takes place. The reactor
core contains fuel rods made of fissile material, such as uranium-235. When a neutron hits a
uranium-235 nucleus, it splits the nucleus, releasing a large amount of energy in the form of heat
and neutrons. These neutrons can then go on to split other uranium-235 nuclei, creating a chain
reaction that releases a sustained amount of heat.

Coolant system: The coolant system circulates a coolant, such as water, through the reactor core to
absorb the heat generated by nuclear fission. The heated coolant is then pumped to a heat
exchanger, where it transfers its heat to another loop of water in the steam generator.

Steam generator: The steam generator is a large heat exchanger that transfers heat from the hot
coolant to a secondary loop of water. This secondary loop water boils to produce steam, which is
then used to drive the turbines.

Turbine: The turbine is a large, rotating machine that is powered by the steam from the steam
generator. The steam spins the turbine blades, which in turn drive a shaft that is connected to an
electric generator.

Electric generator: The electric generator is a machine that converts the mechanical energy of the
rotating turbine shaft into electrical energy. This electricity is then sent out to the power grid.

Containment building: The containment building is a strong, airtight structure that surrounds the
reactor core. It is designed to contain radioactive material in the event of an accident.

Advantages of nuclear power:

Low carbon emissions: Nuclear power plants do not produce greenhouse gases during electricity
generation, making them a clean source of energy.
Reliable: Nuclear power plants can operate 24/7, regardless of weather conditions.

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Fuel efficiency: A small amount of nuclear fuel can produce a large amount of energy.

Disadvantages of nuclear power:

1. Safety concerns: There is a risk of accidents at nuclear power plants, although these are
very rare.
2. Radioactive waste: Nuclear power plants produce radioactive waste, which must be safely
stored for thousands of years.
3. High upfront costs: Nuclear power plants are expensive to build.

India imports uranium fuel from

Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, France Canada.

Diesel power plants

Diesel power plants are facilities that generate electricity using diesel engines. Diesel engines are
internal combustion engines that use the energy released from burning diesel fuel to create
mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is then used to drive a generator, which converts it into
electrical energy.

Main components of a diesel power plant:

1. Diesel engine: The diesel engine is the heart of the power plant, where the combustion of
diesel fuel takes place. The engine consists of a cylinder, piston, connecting
rod, crankshaft, and various other components. When diesel fuel is injected into the cylinder
and ignited, it expands rapidly, pushing the piston down and rotating the crankshaft.
2. Generator: The generator is a machine that converts the mechanical energy of the rotating
crankshaft into electrical energy. The generator consists of a rotor and a stator. The rotor
spins inside the stator, and the magnetic field generated by the rotor induces a current in the
stator windings.
3. Cooling system: The cooling system circulates a coolant, such as water or glycol, through
the engine to prevent it from overheating. The heated coolant is then pumped to a radiator or
cooling tower, where it is cooled down before being recirculate.
4. Fuel system: The fuel system stores, filters, and delivers diesel fuel to the engine. The fuel
system includes a fuel tank, filters, pumps, and injectors.
5. Control system: The control system monitors and controls the operation of the power
plant. The control system includes sensors, actuators, and a computer.

Advantages of diesel power plants:

1. Reliability: Diesel power plants are very reliable and can operate in a wide range of
conditions.
2. Fast startup: Diesel power plants can be started up quickly, which makes them ideal for
backup power generation.
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3. Portable: Diesel power plants can be relatively

small and portable, which makes them useful for
temporary power needs.
4. Fuel efficiency: Diesel engines are relatively
fuel-efficient.
Disadvantages of diesel power plants:
1. Air pollution: Diesel engines emit air
pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides and
particulate matter.
2. Greenhouse gas emissions: Diesel power plants emit greenhouse gases, such as carbon
dioxide, although less than coal-fired power plants.
3. Noise pollution: Diesel engines can be noisy.
4. High maintenance costs: Diesel engines require more maintenance than some other types
of engines.

RENEWABLE RESOURCES
Renewable resources are natural resources that can be replenished on a human timescale,
offering a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fossil fuels. These
resources provide us with energy, materials, and other benefits without depleting themselves
permanently.

Types of renewable resources:

1. Solar Energy: The sun's abundant energy can be harnessed through various technologies,
including:
 Photovoltaic (PV) panels: Convert sunlight directly into electricity through the
photovoltaic effect.
 Concentrated solar power (CSP): Uses mirrors to concentrate sunlight onto a
receiver, generating heat to produce electricity.
2. Wind Energy: Wind turbines capture the kinetic energy of moving air to generate electricity.
3. Hydropower: The energy of moving water, like in rivers or dams, is used to generate electricity.
4. Geothermal Energy: Heat from the Earth's interior can be used to generate electricity or directly
for heating purposes.
5. Biomass Energy: Organic matter like wood, crops, or waste can be burned to produce heat,
electricity, or transportation fuels.
6. Ocean Energy: Various technologies harness the power of waves, tides, and currents to generate
electricity.
Advantages of Renewable Resources:
1. Sustainable: Replenished naturally, reducing reliance on finite fossil fuels.
2. Environmentally friendly: Lower greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution compared to
fossil fuels.

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3. Reduced energy costs: Long-term operational costs can be lower, especially with falling
technology costs.
4. Energy security: Domestic renewable resources offer less dependence on foreign oil
imports.
5. Job creation: The renewable energy sector is a growing job market.

Challenges of Renewable Resources:

1. Intermittency: Some resources like solar and wind are not always available, requiring
storage solutions or backup power.
2. Upfront costs: Initial investment in renewable energy infrastructure can be higher than
traditional options.
3. Land use: Large-scale solar and wind farms can require significant land area.
4. Grid integration: Integrating variable renewable energy sources into the grid requires
investment and smart grid technologies.

RENEWABLE NON-RENEWALE
It can be used again & again throughout its It is limited which can be depleted one day.
life.
It is Sustainable It is exhaustible
The rate of renewal is greater than the rate of The rate of renewal is lower than the rate of
consumption. consumption.
These resources are present in unlimited These resources are present in limited quantity
quantity.
Pollution free Not Pollution free
Example: Sun light Example: Coal,Petroleum,Natural
gases,batteries
Potential of New and Renewable Sources in India

1. India is running one of the largest and most ambitious renewable capacity expansion
programs in the world.
2. In the electricity sector, renewable energy account for 35% of the total installed power
capacity.
3. Large hydro installed capacity was 45.399 GW as of 31 March 2019,contributing to 13% of
the total power capacity.
4. The remaining renewable energy sources accounted for 22% of the total installed power
capacity (77.641 GW) as of 31 March 2019.

Hydroelectric power plants

Hydroelectric power plants are a type of renewable energy facility that uses the power of moving
water to generate electricity. They are a mature technology with a long history, and they can provide a
reliable and clean source of power.

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Components of a hydroelectric power plant:

1. Dam: The dam is a structure that creates a reservoir by storing water behind it. The
height of the dam determines the amount of potential energy that can be stored in the
water.
2. Reservoir: The reservoir is the body of water that is created by the dam. The size of the
reservoir determines how much water is available to generate electricity.
3. Penstock: The penstock is a pipe that carries water from the reservoir to the turbine.
4. Turbine: The turbine is a machine that converts the kinetic energy of moving water into
mechanical energy.

5. Generator: The generator is a machine that converts the mechanical energy from the turbine
into electrical energy.
6. Powerhouse: The powerhouse is the building that houses the turbine, generator, and other
equipment.
7. Transmission lines: The transmission lines carry the electricity generated by the plant to the
consumers.

Hydroelectric power plants can be a valuable source of clean and renewable energy, but
they also have some environmental impacts. These impacts can include the displacement of
people and wildlife, changes in water flow and quality, and the emission of greenhouse gases
from the decomposition of organic matter in reservoirs.

It is important to carefully consider the potential environmental impacts of a hydroelectric

power plant before construction begins. There are a number of ways to mitigate these impacts,
such as building fish passageways around dams, releasing water from the reservoir to maintain
downstream flows, and using clean construction practices.

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Hydro Power Capacity

1. Hydroelectricity is administered separately by the Ministry of Power and not included in

Ministry of New & Renewable Energy(MNRE) targets.
2. India is the 7th largest producer of hydroelectric power in the world.
3. As of 30 April 2017, India’s installed utility-scale hydroelectric capacity was 44,594 MW or
13% of its total utility power generation capacity.
4. Additional smaller hydroelectric power units with a total capacity of 4,380 MW(1.3% of its
total utility power generation capacity) have been installed.
5. Small hydropower, defined to the generated at facilities with nameplate Capacities upto 25
MW, comes under the ambit of the Ministry of New & Renewable energy (MNRE): whilst
large hydro, defined as above 25 MW, comes under the ambit of Ministry of Power.

Wind power plants

Wind power plants are facilities that convert the kinetic energy of wind into electrical energy
using wind turbines. They are a form of renewable energy that does not produce greenhouse
gases or other pollutants, making them a more sustainable alternative to fossil fuel-based power
plants.

Here are the key components of a wind power plant:

Wind turbine: The wind turbine is the heart of the plant, and it consists of a tower, a
nacelle, and blades. The tower supports the nacelle and blades, and its height determines how
much wind the turbine can capture. The nacelle houses the turbine's mechanical and electrical
components, including the gearbox, generator, and controls. The blades rotate in the wind, and
their size and design are crucial for efficient energy conversion.

Gearbox: A gearbox is a crucial component in a wind turbine, responsible for increasing the
slow rotational speed of the blades (around 10-30 rpm) to a much higher speed suitable for the
generator (typically 1,500 rpm or more) to produce electricity efficiently. This significant speed
increase is necessary because generators are designed to operate at high speeds to produce
usable amounts of electricity.

Foundation: The foundation anchors the wind turbine to the ground and must be strong enough
to withstand the forces of wind and gravity.

Collection system: The collection system gathers the electricity generated by each wind turbine
in the plant and transmits it to a central substation. This system may include underground cables
or overhead power lines.

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Substation: The substation transforms the electricity from the collection system to a higher
voltage for transmission over long distances. It also meters the electricity and provides
protection from electrical faults.

Transmission lines: The transmission lines carry the electricity from the substation to the
power grid, where it can be distributed to homes and businesses.

Challenges associated with wind power,

Intermittency: Wind is not always available, so wind power plants cannot always provide
reliable base load power.
Visual impact: Some people find wind turbines to be visually unappealing.
Impact on wildlife: Wind turbines can pose a risk to birds and bats.

Wind Power Capacity

Wind power capacity was 36,625 MW as of 31 march 2019,making India the fourth- largest wind
power producer in the world.

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The Country has a strong manufacturing base in the Wind power with 20 manufactures of 53
different wind turbine models of international quality up to 3 MW in size with exports to Europe,
the United States and other Countries.

Wind or Solar PV paired with 4 hr battery storage systems is already cost competitive, without
subsidy, as a source of dispatch able generation compared with new coal & new gas plants in India.

Solar Power Plants:

A solar power plant is a facility that converts sunlight into electricity. There are two main types of
solar power plants:

Photovoltaic (PV) power plants: These use solar panels made up of photovoltaic cells that convert
sunlight directly into electricity through the photovoltaic effect.The photovoltaic cells convert the
light energy into DC electricity. The DC electricity is then inverted into AC electricity, which is fed
into the grid.

Concentrated solar power (CSP)

plants: Sunlight is concentrated by mirrors
or lenses onto a receiver. The receiver heats a
fluid, which creates steam that drives a
turbine. The turbine turns a generator, which
produces electricity. The electricity is then
fed into the grid.

Solar Power Capacity

1. Solar Energy Corporation of India is responsible for the development of Solar Energy in
India.
2. The Government target of installing 20GW of Solar power by 2022 was achieved four years
ahead of schedule in January 2018,through both Solar parks as well as roof-top solar panels.
3. India has set a new target of achieving 100 GW OF Solar power by 2022.
4. Four of the top seven largest solar parks worldwide are in India including the second largest
solar park in the world at Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh with a capacity of 1000MW.
5. The World’s largest solar power plant, Bhadla solar park is being constructed in Rajasthan
with a capacity of 2255 MW and is expected to be completed by the end of 2018.
6. India is also the home to the world’s first & only 100% solar powered airport located at
Cochin, Kerala.

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7. India also has a wholly 100% solar powered railway station in Guwhati, Assam.
8. India first & largest floating solar power plant was constructed at Banasura Sagar reservoir
in wayanad, Kerala.
9. Tamil Nadu has the 5th highest operating solar power capacity in India in May 2018.
10. The total operating capacity in Tamil Nadu is 1.8 GW.
11. The 648 MW Kamuthi solar power project is the biggest operating project in the state.

Biomass power plant

The image you sent is a diagram of a typical biomass power plant. The main components of the
plant are labeled, and I will explain how each component works together to generate electricity.

Biomass Fuel:
The first step in generating electricity at a biomass power plant is to obtain biomass fuel.
Biomass fuel can come from a variety of sources, including wood, crops, and municipal solid
waste. The type of biomass fuel used will depend on the availability and cost of the fuel in the area
where the plant is located.

Preparation and Handling:

The biomass fuel is then prepared and handled in a way that optimizes its energy content
and makes it easier to transport and burn. This may involve grinding, drying, and pelletizing the
fuel.

Combustion:
The prepared biomass fuel is then burned in a furnace or boiler. This releases heat energy,
which is used to create steam.
Steam Turbine:
The hot steam from the boiler is directed to a steam turbine. The turbine is a large, rotating
machine that converts the thermal energy of the steam into mechanical energy.
Generator:
The mechanical energy from the steam turbine is then used to turn a generator. The
generator converts the mechanical energy into electrical energy.
Cooling System:

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The steam that exits the turbine is much cooler than the steam that entered it. This cooler
steam is then sent to a condenser, where it is cooled further and converted back into water. The
water is then recycled back to the boiler to be used again.
Transmission Lines:
The electricity generated by the power plant is sent to transformers, which increase the
voltage of the electricity. The high-voltage electricity is then sent to transmission lines, which carry
it to homes and businesses.
Pollution Control:
Biomass power plants can emit pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, and
particulate matter. To control these emissions, power plants typically use pollution control devices
such as scrubbers and bag houses.

Advantages:
 Biomass is a renewable energy source.
 Biomass power plants can provide a reliable source of baseload power.
 Biomass power plants can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
 Biomass power plants can create jobs in rural areas.
Disadvantages:
 Biomass power plants can emit air pollution.
 The transportation and storage of biomass fuel can be expensive.
 The amount of energy produced from biomass can vary depending on the type of fuel used.
 Biomass power plants can compete with other land uses, such as agriculture and forestry.
Bio mass Power Capacity

1. Biomass power from biomass combustion,biomass gasification and bagasse cogeneration

reached 3.98 million.
2. Family type bio gas plants reached 3.98 million.

Tidal Power Plants

Tidal power plants generate electricity by capturing the energy from the tides, the rhythmic
rise and fall of the ocean caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and sun. These renewable
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energy facilities offer a clean and sustainable source of power, utilizing the predictable energy of
tides unlike wind and solar which are intermittent.

There are two main types of tidal power plants:

1. Tidal barrage: This type uses a barrier constructed across an estuary or bay, with turbines
placed within the barrier to capture the kinetic energy of the flowing water as it moves through
openings. The Rance Tidal Power Station in France is the world's largest operating tidal
barrage plant.

Tidal barrage Tidal stream

2. Tidal stream: This type harnesses the power of moving water in tidal currents without the
need for a barrage. Underwater turbines are placed in areas with strong tidal currents, similar to
wind turbines but submerged in the ocean. The MeyGen tidal stream project in Scotland is the
world's largest operating tidal stream array.

Components of a Tidal Power Plant

1. Turbines: These convert the kinetic energy of moving water into mechanical energy.
2. Generators: These convert the mechanical energy from the turbines into electricity.
3. Transmission lines: These carry the electricity from the plant to the grid.
4. Control systems: These monitor and control the operation of the plant.

How Tidal Power Plants Work?

Tidal barrage:
1. During high tide, water accumulates behind the barrage, creating a difference in water level
between the two sides.
2. As the water level difference increases, the water flows through openings in the
barrage, spinning the turbines.
3. The turbines convert the kinetic energy of the flowing water into mechanical energy.
4. The generators convert the mechanical energy from the turbines into electricity.
5. The electricity is then fed into the grid via transmission lines.

Tidal stream:

1. Underwater turbines are placed in areas with strong tidal currents.

2. As the tidal current flows past the turbines, they spin, converting the kinetic energy of the
moving water into mechanical energy.
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3. The generators convert the mechanical energy from the turbines into electricity.
4. The electricity is then fed into the grid via underwater cables.

Benefits of Tidal Power Plants

1. Renewable energy: Tidal power is a renewable energy source that will not be depleted.
2. Clean energy: Tidal power plants do not produce greenhouse gases or other
pollutants, making them a clean and sustainable source of energy.
3. Predictable energy: Tides are predictable, which means that tidal power plants can provide
a reliable source of baseload power.
4. Job creation: The tidal power industry creates jobs in
manufacturing, construction, operation, and maintenance.
5. Challenges of Tidal Power Plants
6. High cost: Tidal power plants can be expensive to build and maintain.
7. Limited potential: Tidal power has limited potential due to the specific geographical
locations needed for strong tidal currents or suitable estuaries for barrages.
8. Environmental impact: Tidal power plants can have some environmental impacts, such as
disrupting marine life and habitats

Tidal Power Capacity

1. The Gujarat government is all set to develop India’s first tidal energy plant. The state
government has approved Rs. 25 crore for setting up the 50 MW Plant at the Gulf of Kutch.
2. It will produce energy from the ocean tides.

Geothermal Power Plants:

Geothermal power plants are a type of renewable energy facility that converts heat from the
Earth's interior into electricity. This clean and sustainable energy source offers a reliable alternative
to fossil fuel-based power plants, tapping into the immense thermal energy stored deep
underground.

Here's how geothermal power plants work:

Extracting Geothermal Heat:

Geothermal reservoirs, pockets of hot water or steam trapped within the Earth's crust, are
identified through exploration and drilling.

Wells are drilled deep into the ground, reaching these reservoirs and allowing the hot fluids
to rise to the surface through natural pressure or pumps.

2. Utilizing the Heat:

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There are three main types of geothermal power plants

1. Dry steam plants: Utilize naturally occurring steam directly from geothermal vents or wells
to power turbines.

2. Flash steam plants: Flash hot water extracted from wells into steam at lower
pressure, driving turbines for electricity generation.
3. Binary cycle plants: Use an organic fluid with a lower boiling point than water, which is
heated by the geothermal fluid in a heat exchanger. The organic fluid then vaporizes and
drives turbines to produce electricity. This method is suitable for lower-temperature
geothermal resources.

3. Generating Electricity:
The steam or vapor, regardless of the method used, spins turbines connected to
generators, converting the mechanical energy into electricity.
4. Cooling and Reinjection:
After extracting energy, the used geothermal fluid (water or brine) is reinjected back into the
reservoir through separate wells, ensuring sustainability and maintaining reservoir pressure. In
some cases, cooling towers may be used to condense steam before reinjection.

Benefits of Geothermal Power:

1. Renewable energy: Geothermal energy is a constantly replenished resource, unlike fossil
fuels.
2. Clean energy: Geothermal power plants produce minimal greenhouse gas
emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment.
3. Reliable baseload power: Geothermal plants offer a consistent and reliable source of
electricity, unlike intermittent sources like solar and wind.
4. Domestic energy source: Many countries have geothermal potential, reducing reliance on
imported fuels.
5. Job creation: The geothermal industry generates jobs in various sectors, from exploration
and drilling to plant operation and maintenance.

Challenges of Geothermal Power:

1. Limited geographical availability: Suitable geothermal resources are not evenly
distributed worldwide, limiting accessibility.

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2. High upfront costs: Drilling and plant construction can be expensive, although operating
costs are relatively low.
3. Potential environmental impact: Emissions, although minimal compared to fossil
fuels, and water use require careful management.

Renewable energy sources have a combined installed capacity of 150+ GW.

 Wind power: 44.73 GW.

 Solar Power: 73.31 GW.
 Biomass/Co-generation: 10.2 GW.
 Small Hydro Power: 4.98 GW.
 Waste To Energy: 0.58 GW.
 Large Hydro: 46.88 GW.
Renewable energy sources demand in India

Renewable energy resources in India

Favorable Geography: India has abundant solar and wind resources, making it well-suited for
solar and wind power generation. The geographical diversity allows for a mix of renewable
sources, including hydropower and biomass, contributing to a robust and diverse renewable energy
portfolio.

Here are some of the major renewable energy resources in India:

Solar power: India is the world's fourth largest producer of solar power, with an installed capacity
of 73.31 GW as of December 2023. India enjoys over 300 sunny days a year, making it a solar
giant.The government is promoting rooftop solar installations and large-scale solar power
projects.

Wind power: India is the world's fourth largest producer of wind power, with an installed
capacity of 44.73 GW as of December 2023. India's coastline and mountainous regions offer
significant wind energy potential.

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AAMEC OEE 351RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEM III/V

The country has strong wind resources in many parts, particularly in coastal areas and the Western
Ghats. The government is promoting wind power generation through various schemes and
auctions.

Hydropower: Hydropower is the largest source of renewable energy in India, with an installed
capacity of 46.88 GW as of December 2023. However, most of this capacity comes from large
hydroelectric projects, which have environmental and social concerns. The government is focusing
on developing small hydro projects, which are less disruptive.

Biomass: Biomass is a traditional source of energy in India, used for cooking and heating. It can
also be used to generate electricity. The government is promoting the use of biomass from
agricultural residues and other waste materials.

Future potential of renewable energy in power production in india

Government Initiatives and Policies:

India has a vast potential for renewable energy resources, and the country is making significant
strides in tapping into this potential. As of December 2023, renewable energy sources have a
combined installed capacity of 180.79 GW, which is 42% of the total installed power capacity in
India. The government has set an ambitious target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based
energy by 2030. 50% Renewable Energy: India aims to meet 50% of its electricity needs from
renewable sources by 2030, a significant jump from the current 13%.

India's Renewable Energy Potential: A Bright Future Shines Ahead India's future in renewable
energy is incredibly promising, driven by ambitious goals, abundant resources, and rapid
technological advancements. Here's a breakdown of the potential:

Technological Advancements:

1. Cost Reduction: Solar panel and wind turbine costs have been falling rapidly, making
renewables increasingly cost-competitive with fossil fuels.
2. Storage Solutions: Advancements in battery storage and other technologies are helping to
address the intermittency challenges of renewables.
3. Grid Integration: Smart grid technologies are being developed to improve the integration
of renewables into the power grid.

Benefits:

Energy Security: Reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels enhances India's energy security.

Climate Change Mitigation: Renewables play a crucial role in achieving India's climate goals.

Economic Growth: The renewable energy sector can create millions of jobs and boost economic
growth.

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AAMEC OEE 351RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEM III/V

Job Creation: The renewable energy sector has the potential to generate significant employment
opportunities, especially in rural areas. Jobs can be created in manufacturing, installation,
maintenance, and research and development.

Investment Opportunities: Increasing investments in the renewable energy sector, both domestic
and international, are driving the growth of the industry. The falling costs of renewable
technologies, particularly solar and wind, make them attractive options for investors.

Development of Renewable Energy Technologies in India

India is experiencing a significant surge in the development and adoption of renewable energy
technologies. This is driven by a number of factors, including:

1. Growing energy demand: India's population is expected to reach 1.5 billion by 2030, which
will put a strain on the country's energy resources.
2. Climate change concerns: India is one of the country most vulnerable to the effects of climate
change, and renewable energy is seen as a key way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
3. Declining costs of renewable energy: The costs of solar, wind, and other renewable energy
technologies have fallen dramatically in recent years, making them more competitive with
fossil fuels.
4. Government support: The Indian government has set ambitious targets for renewable energy
deployment and has introduced a number of policies to support the sector.

Challenges:

1. Infrastructure Development: Scaling up renewable energy requires significant investments in

transmission lines, grid modernization, and storage infrastructure.
2. Land Acquisition: Land acquisition for large-scale solar and wind projects can be challenging.
3. Policy Stability: Consistent and supportive policies are needed to attract investments and
ensure long-term growth of the sector.
4. Manufacturing: India needs to develop its own domestic manufacturing capacity for
renewable energy components
5. Financing: India needs to invest billions of dollars in renewable energy infrastructure in the
coming years. This will require innovative financing mechanisms, such as green bonds and
public-private partnerships.
6. Grid integration: Integrating large amounts of variable renewable energy into the grid can be
challenging. India needs to invest in smart grid technologies and energy storage solutions.

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