Module No.
01
Introduction of Energy and Solar Energy
1. Introduction of Energy and Solar Energy
Energy is the capacity to do work. It is essential in every aspect of life—whether it's running
industries, transportation, domestic appliances, or communication systems. With increasing
global energy demand, it is crucial to explore sustainable and renewable sources, especially
solar energy, which is abundant and eco-friendly.
1.1 Introduction to Energy Sources and Their Availability
Energy sources can be broadly classified into:
1. Renewable Sources (Inexhaustible)
• Naturally replenished and sustainable
• Examples:
o Solar Energy – energy from the sun
o Wind Energy – kinetic energy from wind
o Hydropower – energy from flowing water
o Biomass – organic matter
o Geothermal Energy – heat from Earth’s interior
2. Non-Renewable Sources (Exhaustible)
• Finite resources; will deplete over time
• Examples:
o Coal
o Petroleum (Oil)
o Natural Gas
o Nuclear Energy (though energy-dense, fuel is limited)
Availability of Energy Sources:
• Fossil fuels are unevenly distributed, leading to energy security concerns.
• Renewables like solar and wind are more universally available but intermittent and
location-dependent.
Different Forms of Energy
Energy exists in several forms, and it can be converted from one form to another:
Form of Energy Example
Mechanical Energy Moving vehicles, turbines
Thermal (Heat) Energy Boiling water, furnaces
Chemical Energy Batteries, fuel combustion
Electrical Energy Electricity in homes and industries
Nuclear Energy Atomic reactions, nuclear power
Radiant Energy Sunlight, lasers
Sound Energy Music, noise from machines
2. Global and Indian Energy Scenario, Conventional Energy Sources: Commercial and Non-
Commercial
2.1 Global Energy Scenario
• Global energy demand is increasing due to industrialization, urbanization, and
population growth.
• The world primarily depends on non-renewable energy sources, especially fossil fuels
(coal, oil, and natural gas).
• As of recent data (approximate global energy mix):
o Oil – 31%
o Coal – 27%
o Natural Gas – 24%
o Renewables – 12%
o Nuclear – 6%
• Challenges:
o Depletion of fossil fuels
o Rising prices
o Climate change due to greenhouse gas emissions
o Need for transition to sustainable energy
2.2 Indian Energy Scenario
• India is the third-largest energy consumer in the world.
• The energy mix is dominated by coal, followed by oil, natural gas, and increasing
renewables.
Key Statistics (approximate):
• Coal – 55%
• Oil – 30%
• Natural Gas – 6%
• Renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro) – 8%
• Nuclear – 1%
Challenges in India:
• High import dependency for oil and gas
• Uneven energy access (urban vs rural)
• Transmission and distribution losses
• Environmental concerns
Government Initiatives:
• National Solar Mission
• Ujjwala Yojana – for LPG distribution
• International Solar Alliance (ISA)
• Push for Electric Vehicles (EVs)
2.3 Conventional Energy Sources
Conventional energy sources are traditional sources used for decades. They are non-
renewable and polluting, but currently form the bulk of energy supply.
Types of Conventional Energy Sources:
A. Commercial Energy Sources
These are bought and sold in the market, widely used in industries and households.
Source Characteristics Examples
Coal Major source for power generation Thermal power plants
Petroleum Used in transport and manufacturing Petrol, Diesel, LPG
Natural Gas Cleanest fossil fuel, used in industries PNG, CNG
Electricity Generated from various sources Grid power supply
B. Non-Commercial Energy Sources
Used traditionally, especially in rural areas, and not traded in markets.
Source Characteristics Examples
Firewood Easily available but polluting Wood from forests
Cow dung cakes Common in rural India Biomass fuel
Agricultural waste Used for heating and cooking Crop residue
