Renewable Energy - Class Notes
Date: January 16, 2025
Topic: Renewable Energy: Overview and Applications
1. Introduction to Renewable Energy
Definition: Energy derived from natural processes that are
replenished at a faster rate than they are consumed.
Examples: Solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and biomass energy.
Importance:
1. Reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Decreases reliance on finite fossil fuels.
3. Enhances energy security and sustainability.
2. Types of Renewable Energy
a. Solar Energy
Source: Sunlight.
Applications:
o Photovoltaic cells for electricity generation.
o Solar thermal systems for heating.
Advantages: Widely available, low operational costs.
b. Wind Energy
Source: Wind currents.
Applications: Wind turbines convert kinetic energy to electricity.
Challenges: Intermittent nature, land use concerns.
c. Hydropower
Source: Flowing water.
Applications: Dams and turbines for electricity generation.
Key Factor: Reservoir management.
d. Geothermal Energy
Source: Heat from Earth's core.
Applications:
o Heating systems.
o Power plants for electricity generation.
e. Biomass Energy
Source: Organic materials like wood, agricultural waste, and
manure.
Applications: Biofuels (ethanol, biodiesel), direct combustion.
3. Benefits and Challenges
Benefits:
Environmentally friendly (low emissions).
Infinite availability.
Challenges:
High initial investment.
Geographical limitations (e.g., wind requires open areas, solar needs
sunlight).
4. Case Studies
1. Wind Farms in Denmark: A global leader in wind energy
generation.
2. Solar Parks in India: Harnessing solar power on a massive scale
(e.g., Bhadla Solar Park).
5. Future Trends
Increased integration of AI and IoT for energy efficiency.
Development of advanced storage systems (e.g., batteries).
Expansion of hybrid renewable energy systems.
Key Takeaway:
Transitioning to renewable energy is crucial for achieving a sustainable
and resilient energy future.
