Explain briefly the various non-conventional sources of energy.

Question

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Solution

The various non-conventional sources of energy are explained below:

Solar energy: It is generated by using solar power (power of sun). It is used in the following two ways:

Solar Thermal Programme in which solar energy is used directly for heating water, cooking food, etc.
Solar Photovoltaic Programme in which photovoltaic cells convert solar energy into electricity.

Wind energy: It is generated by using wind power. A large wind turbine usually consisting of propellers is connected to a generator to generate electricity. India is the fifth largest producer of wind energy.
Tidal energy: It is produced through the use of tidal energy generators. These large under water turbines are placed in areas with high tidal movements in order to produce electricity. With its vast coastline, India has tremendous scope to produce this form of energy.
Atomic energy: Atomic energy is generated by conducting fission reactions in a controlled environment. These reactions emit a lot of heat which drives turbine generators to produce electricity. Nuclear or atomic energy in India is generated in 21 nuclear reactors in operation in 7 nuclear power plants. The first nuclear energy centre was established in Tarapur in 1969.
Bio-energy: This energy is generated by using COW-dung, agricultural wastes and other biological materials. There are two forms of bio-energy which are given below:

Biogas: Biogas plants are set up and are fed with cow-dung and other organic waste. The fermentation process generates gas which is used for cooking, lighting, etc.
Biomass: Solid fuel is produced by converting agricultural wastes to pillets and briqullets.

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