Renewable Energy Video Lecture | Environment for UPSC CSE

Ans. Renewable energy refers to energy that is generated from naturally replenishing sources, such as sunlight, wind, water, and geothermal heat. Unlike fossil fuels, which are finite and contribute to environmental pollution, renewable energy sources are sustainable and have a minimal impact on the environment.

Ans. Renewable energy plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change as it produces significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels. By relying more on renewable energy sources, we can reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, which are the primary contributors to global warming. This shift towards renewable energy helps to decrease carbon dioxide emissions and limit the adverse effects of climate change.

Ans. Some common forms of renewable energy include solar power, wind power, hydropower, biomass, and geothermal energy. Solar power involves harnessing energy from the sun using photovoltaic cells, while wind power utilizes wind turbines to convert wind energy into electricity. Hydropower involves the generation of electricity through the flow of water, and biomass utilizes organic materials such as plants and waste to produce energy. Geothermal energy harnesses the heat from the Earth's core to generate power.

Ans. Renewable energy offers several advantages over traditional fossil fuels. Firstly, it is a sustainable and inexhaustible source of energy, ensuring long-term availability. Secondly, renewable energy sources have a significantly lower impact on the environment, as they produce little to no greenhouse gas emissions or air pollutants. Additionally, renewable energy can enhance energy security by reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels and diversifying the energy mix. It also creates job opportunities and promotes economic growth in the renewable energy sector.

Ans. While renewable energy has numerous benefits, there are challenges in scaling up its deployment. One challenge is the intermittency of certain renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, which depend on weather conditions. This requires the development of efficient energy storage systems to ensure a continuous and reliable power supply. Additionally, the initial investment and infrastructure requirements for renewable energy projects can be costly. However, as technology advances and economies of scale are achieved, the costs are gradually decreasing. Government policies and regulations also play a crucial role in incentivizing renewable energy deployment and overcoming barriers to its widespread adoption.