Wind Energy Harnessing in Indian States
Harnessing wind energy involves using wind turbines to convert the kinetic energy of wind into electricity. The effectiveness of this process depends heavily on geographical factors, including consistent wind speeds, availability of open land or coastal areas, and infrastructure.
Assessing Wind Energy Potential in Indian States
Several Indian states have significant potential for wind energy generation due to their geographical features. Key factors include:
- Coastal Proximity: Areas near the coast often experience stronger and more consistent winds.
- Wind Speed: Higher average wind speeds result in greater electricity generation.
- Land Availability: Large, open areas are needed for setting up wind farms.
- Government Policies: Supportive policies encourage investment and development.
Gujarat's Leading Role in Wind Energy
Among the given options, Gujarat stands out as a state highly conducive to wind energy harnessing. Here's why:
- Gujarat boasts a very long coastline along the Arabian Sea, which facilitates strong onshore and offshore winds.
- The state has consistently been among the top performers in India for wind power generation capacity.
- Its topography and favorable wind patterns make it ideal for installing and operating large-scale wind farms.
Comparison with Other States
While other states like Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand have renewable energy initiatives, they generally possess less optimal conditions for large-scale wind energy harnessing compared to Gujarat. Their geographical inland locations and different wind patterns typically result in lower energy yields from wind turbines.
Conclusion on Wind Energy
Based on geographical advantages and established wind power capacity, Gujarat is the most suitable Indian state among the choices provided for efficiently harnessing wind energy.
Important Questions from Sources of Energy
It is possible to produce algae based biofuels, but what is/are the likely limitation(s) of developing countries in promoting this industry?
1. Production of algae based biofuels is possible in seas only and not on continents.
2. Setting up and engineering the algae based biofuel production requires high level of expertise/technology until the construction is completed.
3. Economically viable production necessitates the setting up of large scale facilities which may raise ecological and social concerns.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
With reference to two non-conventional energy sources called ‘coalbed methane’ and ‘shale gas’, consider the following ‘statements:
(1) Coalbed methane is the pure methane gas extracted from coal seams, while shale gas is a mixture of propane and butane only that can be extracted from fine-grained sedimentary rocks.
(2) In India abundant coalbed methane sources exist, but so far no shale gas sources have been found.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
The relation between focal length 'f'‚ object distance 'u' and image distance 'v' in the case of reflection of light by a spherical mirror is given by_______.
- What is the typical range of wind speed (in m/s) required for the efficient operation of most commercial wind turbines?
Which of the following is the cleanest source of energy?
