Renewable Energy Scenario in India

India has a vast supply of renewable energy resources, and it has one of the largest programs in the world for deploying renewable energy products and systems. Indeed, it is the only country in the world to have an exclusive ministry for renewable energy development, the Ministry of Non-Conventional Energy Sources (MNES). Since its formation, the Ministry has launched one of the worlds largest and most ambitious programs on renewable energy. Based on various promotional efforts put in place by MNES, significant progress is being made in power generation from renewable energy sources. In October, MNES was renamed the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. Specifically, 3,700 MW are currently powered by renewable energy sources (3.5 per cent of total installed capacity). This is projected to be 10,000 MW from renewable energy by 2012. What will work for India?? Due to the prohibitive price, solar will remain on the back foot in India in the near future.There are efforts from industries to reduce the cost and make it cheaper than the present situation. Solar has a great potential and will be utilized by individuals or someinstitutions for their captive needs. However, large installations will take at least around 5 to 10 years in India to make its presence felt. Other forms of renewable energy like biomass, bio-fuel and wastes will also require time in India. The technologies to convert jatropha, palm oil or algae into bio-fuels are not yet commercial and will take time to become economical. Algae, if pursued and successful, will be the answer to the worries of energy. It will not only engulf the huge amounts of carbon dioxide, but also give higher yields per unit area. Wind energy will be the biggest beneficiary and will grow from its present position. From over 7500 MW of installations to 45,000 MW potential, there is a long way to go. In a short span i.e. around next five years it will be wind energy which will grow. Conclusion In the short term (up to five years), wind energy will rule the roost. It is poised to grow due to the mature technology and easy installation. However, after ten to fifteen years, it will be solar and bio-fuels which will be major front runners for renewable energy usage. These technologies will be more mature and economically viable by then and the global warming phenomenon will force us to embrace those technologies.

References ^ http://indianpowersector.com/ :source CEA ^ Consumer financing program for solar home systems in southern India ^ a b UNEP wins Energy Globe award ^ Sethi, Nitin (November 18, 2009). "India targets 1,000mw solar power in 2013". Times of India. ^ PV Resources.com (2009). World's largest photovoltaic power plants ^ "Tata Power commissions 25 MW solar project in Gujarat". Economic Times (New Delhi, India). 2012-02-15.