Power Resources of India: Renewable and Non-Renewable (Coal and Petroleum) Sources

This article provides essential information about power resources in India focusing on topics relevant to candidates preparing for government exams . Understanding the different power resources is crucial as the energy sector plays a vital role in India's economic growth and development . By delving into the details of power resources, historical aspects and their significance, candidates can enhance their knowledge and preparation. Oftentimes, this is a major part of the general knowledge or general awareness section of examinations like banking examinations, SSC, UPSC, railway examinations, and several others. This section is called the static GK section of the exams. Candidates can go through this complete article and get an understanding of what will be asked in the examinations. 

What are Power Resources in India?

Download Free Power Resources in India PDF

Power resources in India refer to the various sources and methods used for generating electricity. India, as one of the fastest-growing economies, relies on diverse power resources to meet the increasing energy demands of its industries, households, and infrastructure. These resources include thermal power, hydroelectric power, nuclear power, renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, and more.

Check what are non - performing assets!

Types of Power Resources in India

India is a vast country with a wide variety of power resources, including both renewable and non-renewable sources. Non-renewable sources include fossil fuels and coal. India imports most of its crude oil, while coal is abundantly available domestically and is widely used for electricity generation, which leads to significant pollution.

To combat pollution the Indian government is prioritizing renewable energy sources. These include hydroelectric power, solar energy and wind energy. Additionally, atomic power is a highly efficient energy resource in India, generating substantial electricity over long periods using natural atomic resources.

Renewable Energy Resources

Renewable energy resources are sustainable sources of power that can be replenished naturally . Examples include biomass, wind, hydro-power, geothermal and solar energy . Unlike fossil fuels and other non-renewable sources, renewable energy can be used repeatedly without being depleted, making it an important part of efforts to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainable development.

Non-renewable Energy Resources

Non-renewable energy resources are those derived from finite sources that cannot be replenished in a short period. They include fossil fuels such as coal, crude oil, and natural gas, which formed millions of years ago from organic matter. Uranium, used for nuclear energy, is also considered non-renewable. These resources are finite and their extraction and use contribute to environmental concerns like pollution and climate change.

The history of power resources in India dates back to the late 19th century when the first power plant was established in Kolkata (then Calcutta) in 1899. Initially, power generation was limited to a few cities and industries. However with the rapid industrialization and urbanization in the post-independence era the demand for electricity grew substantially .

The Indian power sector witnessed significant developments in the 20th century. The government of India launched various initiatives to expand power generation and ensure electricity access to all . The establishment of state electricity boards and the centralization of power generation and transmission were key steps in the sector's growth .

In the 1990s, India embarked on economic reforms and liberalization, which brought reforms in the power sector as well. The Electricity Act of 2003 paved the way for competition and private participation in power generation and distribution, leading to a more diversified power generation landscape.

Know the tribes of Uttar Pradesh!

Major Events in Power Resources in India

Major events in power resources in India has been explained as under -

• Establishment of the Central Electricity Authority: The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) was established in 1945 as a statutory organization to regulate and oversee power generation, transmission, and distribution in India.
• Launch of the Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana (RGGVY): The RGGVY was launched in 2005 to provide electricity access to rural households and promote rural electrification.
• National Solar Mission: The National Solar Mission, launched in 2010, aims to promote the development of solar power in India and achieve significant solar energy capacity by 2022.
• Expansion of Wind Power : India has witnessed significant growth in wind power generation with the government introducing policies and incentives to promote wind energy projects .

Importance or Significance of Power Resources in India

Power resources hold immense significance for India's development and growth :

• Industrial Development : Adequate and reliable power supply is crucial for industrial development, supporting manufacturing processes and promoting economic growth .
• Electricity Access: Access to electricity improves the quality of life, enhances education and healthcare services, and facilitates overall socio-economic development.
• Energy Security: Diversification of power resources reduces dependence on fossil fuels and imports, enhancing energy security for the nation.
• Environmental Sustainability: Emphasizing renewable energy sources promotes environmental sustainability, reduces carbon emissions, and mitigates climate change impacts.
• Rural Electrification: Extending electricity access to rural areas helps bridge the urban-rural divide, fosters rural development, and improves agricultural productivity.

Understand the functions and anatomy of human body!

Points to Remember about Power Resources in India

Here are some key points to remember about power resources in India:

• Thermal power, primarily coal-based, accounts for a significant share of electricity generation in India.
• India has a growing focus on renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydro, and biomass for sustainable power generation.
• The government of India has introduced various policies, targets, and incentives to promote clean energy generation and energy efficiency.
• India has set ambitious renewable energy targets, aiming to achieve a significant share of renewable energy in the overall energy mix.

What are some of the highest waterfall in the world?

Power Resources in India in a Glimpse - In a Table

The glimpse of resources in India is explained in table form as under -

Power Resource	Description
Thermal Power	Generated using fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas.
Hydroelectric Power	Generated using the force of flowing or falling water.
Nuclear Power	Generated through controlled nuclear reactions in nuclear power plants.
Renewable Energy	Includes solar power, wind power, biomass energy, and hydroelectric power from small-scale projects.

Understand all the classical dances of India!

Power resources play a crucial role in India's economic growth, energy security, and sustainable development. Understanding the different power resources, their historical evolution, and their significance is essential for candidates preparing for government exams. The power sector in India has witnessed significant developments over the years, with a focus on diversification, clean energy initiatives, and expanding electricity access. By embracing renewable energy sources and ensuring a reliable power supply, India aims to meet the growing energy demands while mitigating environmental impacts.

Get Previous Year Question Papers

SSC Previous Year Question Papers
SSC GD Previous Year Question Paper	SSC CGL Previous Year Question Paper
SSC CHSL Previous Year Question Paper	SSC JE Previous Year Question Paper
SSC MTS Previous Year Question Paper	SSC CPO Previous Year Question Paper
Railway Previous Year Question Papers
RRB ALP Previous Year Question Paper	RRB NTPC Previous Year Question Paper
RRB Technician Previous Year Question Paper	RPF Constable Previous Year Question Paper
RPF SI Previous Year Question Paper	RRB Group D Previous Year Question Paper
State PCS Previous Year Papers
BPSC Previous Year Papers	Kerala PSC KAS Previous Year Papers
MPSC Previous Year Papers	KPSC KAS Previous Year Papers
OPSC OAS Previous Year Papers	RPSC RAS Previous Year Papers
UPPCS Previous Year Papers	WBCS Previous Year Papers

As we look back on such topics related to GK, it is also important to understand that these topics are crucial for your competitive exams . To know more about other important examinations or information, download our Testbook app today and make your way easy to learn.