Sustainable wind energy system: Role of Energy policy and security-A case study from India

Abstract

Energy security and sustainable development are high in the global agenda due to the impact of volatile energy prices, high demand for energy security, and concerns over environmental sustainability and the global climate change. In a present scenario energy I s most important factor for all developed and developing country. Energy is required for every aspect of our daily life. At present, commercial energy consumption makes up about 65% of the total energy consumed in India. This includes coal with the largest share of 55%, followed by oil at 31%, natural gas at 11% and hydro energy at 3%. Non-commercial energy sources consisting of firewood, cow dung and agriculture wastes account for over 30% of the total energy consumption. The critical feature of India’s energy sector and linkages to economy is the import dependence on crude and petroleum products. Import bill is likely to grow to more than 100% in the near future because of population explosion and improved living standard in the country. Being a tropical country India has unlimited potential for producing renewable energy sources. These sources of energy can play an important role in the sustainable development by providing basic energy needs of rural and remote areas. This paper discusses the current energy status, choice of energy options and potential of wind energy systems for creating sustainable livelihoods in India.

Keywords: wind energy, sustainability, energy security, policy, wind energy programme