MEV 014: Unit 09 – Energy Resources

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 UNIT 9: ENERGY RESOURCES

9.0 Introduction

Energy is essential for the development of any country. It fuels industrial growth, transportation, agriculture, household needs, and overall economic development. With the growing population and advancement of technology, the demand for energy has increased significantly. However, over-dependence on non-renewable energy sources has led to environmental degradation and resource depletion. This unit provides an overview of various energy resources, their classification, current energy use patterns in India, and their impact on the environment.

9.1 Objectives

After studying this unit, you will be able to:

·         Understand the classification and types of energy resources.

·         Identify non-renewable energy resources and their role in energy generation.

·         Analyse the energy demand and supply scenario.

·         Understand energy consumption patterns in India.

·         Recognise the environmental impacts of different energy resources.

·         Realise the importance of shifting to sustainable energy alternatives.

9.2 Energy Resources and Their Classification

Energy resources are sources from which energy can be obtained to perform work or produce heat, electricity, or motion. Based on availability and renewability, energy resources are broadly classified into two types:

1. Renewable Energy Resources:

These are resources that can be replenished naturally in a short period and are considered sustainable. Examples include:

·         Solar Energy – From sunlight.

·         Wind Energy – From moving air.

·         Hydropower – From flowing water.

·         Biomass Energy – From organic matter.

·         Geothermal Energy – From the earth’s internal heat.

·         Tidal and Wave Energy – From oceanic movements.

2. Non-Renewable Energy Resources:

These are finite resources that take millions of years to form and are exhaustible if overused. Examples include:

·         Coal

·         Petroleum (Crude Oil)

·         Natural Gas

·         Nuclear Fuels (Uranium and Thorium)

9.3 Non-Renewable Energy Resources

India relies heavily on non-renewable resources to meet its energy needs. The major non-renewable resources are:

1. Coal:

·         Most abundant fossil fuel in India.

·         Used extensively for electricity generation.

·         Found mainly in Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and West Bengal.

2. Petroleum:

·         Extracted and refined for fuel (diesel, petrol, kerosene) and lubricants.

·         Major oil fields: Bombay High, Assam, Gujarat.

·         India imports a significant portion of its oil requirements.

3. Natural Gas:

·         Cleaner fossil fuel compared to coal and oil.

·         Used in domestic cooking, transportation (CNG), and industries.

4. Nuclear Fuels:

·         Uranium and Thorium used in nuclear power plants.

·         India has limited uranium reserves but abundant thorium (in Kerala's monazite sands).

·         Offers a powerful source of energy but poses radioactive risks.

9.4 Energy Demand and Supply

India’s energy demand has been steadily increasing due to rapid urbanization, industrialization, and rising living standards. Key facts:

·         India is the third-largest energy consumer in the world.

·         Demand for electricity, oil, and gas continues to rise.

·         Energy demand is met through a mix of domestic production and imports.

Challenges in Supply:

·         Heavy dependence on imported crude oil.

·         Inadequate infrastructure for renewable energy distribution.

·         High transmission and distribution losses.

·         Irregular supply and blackouts in rural areas.

9.5 Energy Use Pattern in India

India’s energy use is divided among several sectors:

1. Industrial Sector:

·         The highest energy-consuming sector.

·         Uses coal, electricity, natural gas for manufacturing and processing.

2. Transport Sector:

·         Second largest consumer.

·         Predominantly uses petroleum-based fuels.

3. Residential and Commercial Sectors:

·         Use electricity, LPG, kerosene, and biomass for lighting, cooking, heating.

4. Agriculture Sector:

·         Uses diesel, electricity for irrigation pumps, and machinery.

Current Trends:

·         Increase in renewable energy adoption.

·         Growth of electric vehicles (EVs).

·         Government initiatives such as UJALA, PM-KUSUM, and National Solar Mission.

9.6 Impact on the Environment

The way energy is produced and consumed has a significant impact on the environment. Some of the major environmental issues include:

1. Air Pollution:

·         Burning of fossil fuels releases harmful gases (CO₂, NOₓ, SO₂).

·         Major contributor to smog and respiratory problems.

2. Climate Change:

·         Fossil fuel use increases greenhouse gas emissions.

·         Leads to global warming and extreme weather events.

3. Water and Soil Pollution:

·         Oil spills and coal mining pollute water bodies and degrade land quality.

·         Ash and waste from thermal power plants contaminate soil.

4. Deforestation and Land Use Change:

·         Construction of hydro and thermal power plants often requires clearing forests and displacing communities.

5. Nuclear Hazards:

·         Risk of radiation leaks and disposal of nuclear waste.

9.7 Let Us Sum Up

Energy resources are vital for economic and social development. India, like many other developing nations, is facing the dual challenge of meeting growing energy needs while minimizing environmental damage. While non-renewable resources continue to dominate energy supply, their limitations and environmental impacts highlight the urgent need for transition to renewable energy alternatives. A balanced energy mix, efficient technologies, and sustainable practices are essential for ensuring energy security and environmental protection.

 

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