Types of Non-conventional Energy Resources

Solar Energy

Sun is the biggest source of non-conventional energy. Energy is in the form of photons. India receives abundant sunlight for about 250-300 days in a year. Conversion of solar energy to electric energy and thermal energy takes place mainly by photovoltaic cells and through solar thermal pathways.

Applications: solar heaters, solar dryers and solar cells.

Hydel Power

Electricity is obtained from flowing water. Water from the dam is allowed to flow through the tunnels at a high pressure. Turbines convert the potential energy of the water into electrical energy. About 23,800 MW of energy is generated by hydel power in India.

Hydel power requires construction of big dams, which change the ecological balance posing environmental problems. Mini hydel or micro hydel projects can be built on small streams or canals. These are more convenient than mega hydel power projects.