Powering a Sustainable Future

Sub : Env

Sec: Sustainable development

Introduction

Electricity generation from coal leads to significant air pollution.
It negatively impacts human and animal health.
Research from Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability highlights how nitrogen dioxide and ozone emissions from coal-fired power plants reduce wheat and rice yields in India by over 10%.
This equals about six years’ worth of average yield growth loss.

Impact of Coal-Based Power Generation

Coal-fired power plants have been used since 1920 in India, starting in Hyderabad under the Nizam’s rule.
The Ministry of Coal estimates that India has enough coal to last for the next 120 years.
The impact of coal-based power:
- Air pollution
- Crop yield reduction
- Environmental degradation

Alternative Clean Energy Sources

Wind Energy (Ground to Wind)
- Windmills generate electricity from wind power.
- Nine windy states in India produce 50 GW of wind energy.
- India is the fourth largest producer of wind power globally.
- Private companies contribute significantly to wind power generation.
Solar Energy (Sun to the Land)
- Solar panels absorb sunlight to generate electricity.
- Used on rooftops and large-scale solar farms.
- Popular due to subsidies provided by Central and State governments.
Hydroelectric Power (Block a River and Generate Power)
- Dams block river water to generate electricity.
- Also, provide water for agriculture.
- The top five dams in India generate 50 GW of hydroelectric power.
Osmotic Power (River Flow into the Sea)
- Electricity generated using the osmotic pressure difference when river water meets saltwater in the sea.
- Research from the University of Sydney and Penn State shows the feasibility of this technology.
- India has a 7,500 km coastline, making it a viable energy option.
Nuclear Power
- Nuclear reactors use nuclear fission to generate electricity.
- India has eight nuclear power plants that generate 3.5 GW of power.
- Used for peaceful energy production.

Conclusion

Coal-based power generation must be phased out to reduce pollution and environmental damage.
India has multiple sustainable alternatives to meet its energy needs.
Encouraging investment in clean energy is necessary for a sustainable future.