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Tapping renewable energy

Natural resources, such as wind, are ideal for generating power.

Energy crisis has been haunting the world for several decades now.

Depleting levels of petroleum, coal and water have been posing questions on energy security. The concerns of pollution have added to woes of humanity. In the backdrop of this dismal scenario, renewable energy provides hope to future generations.

Though the advantages of renewable energy have been acknowledged, attempts to harness its sources are inadequate. Agencies associated with renewable energy sector have chalked out programmes for highlighting the issues in energy management.

As part of this initiative, a white paper on renewable energy has been brought out by the International Solar Energy Society. The white paper deals with a variety of issues pertaining to conventional and non-conventional energy systems.

Developing countries have to invest in energy generating projects, but they need not follow the path of the developed nations. The paper underlines the need for a combination of energy conservation, energy efficiency and renewable energy.

The link between energy and poverty has been brought into sharp focus.

Energy volatility and protection of natural life supporting systems are key factors in development. Creation of a supportive system by means of policies and legislation, awareness on renewable energy are all vital ingredients in energy management.

Global hydropower

Describing the status of energy resources, the paper points out that about two-thirds of the global hydropower potential is located within the developing world, but there are serious constraints in its utilisation. Though bio-energy is increasingly being harnessed, the systems in use are inefficient. Wind energy has become competitive and has registered cost reductions. "Injustice is being meted out to future generations by way of polluting the atmosphere in the name of generating energy," says Ramesh Kymal, an expert in renewable energy. The damage being done to the environment because of burning of fossil fuel is irreparable, he says.

Natural resources, such as wind, are ideal for generating power. When it is abundantly available, the governments should give priority for it, according to him.

He is not alone. But he is part of a small group of people concerned about energy safety and security. All the same, he is hopeful that renewable energy will be more in focus in the days ahead.

R. Ramabhadran Pillai

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