Non Conventional Sources of Energy – its Significance | New Topic [2024]

In this note, we are going to learn about Non Conventional Sources of Energy and its significance. Welcome to Poly Notes Hub, a leading destination for engineering notes for engineering students.

Author Name: Arun Paul.

What is Non Conventional Sources of Energy?

Non conventional energy resources, often known as renewable or alternative energy sources, are regenerated naturally and are nearly limitless. They are classified as “non-conventional” in comparison to typical fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas, which are finite and contribute to environmental pollution and climate change.

Some examples of Non-Conventional Sources of Energy –

• Solar Energy: Solar energy, which is derived from the sun’s light, can be used to generate electricity through photovoltaic cells or heat through solar thermal systems for a variety of uses.
• Wind Energy: Wind energy is captured by wind turbines, which convert the kinetic energy of moving air into electrical power. Wind farms are frequently developed in places with steady and strong winds.
• Ocean Energy: Includes a variety of devices for harnessing energy from ocean waves, tides, currents, and temperature changes. Examples include tidal power plants, wave energy converters, and ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) systems.
• Also, Biomass Energy¹, Hydropower², and Geothermal Energy³ are the non conventional energy.

Significance of Non Conventional Energy

Below we listed significance of non conventional energy resources –

1. Environmental Sustainability: Non-conventional energy resources provide a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels, with lower greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. We can alleviate the harmful effects of climate change, conserve biodiversity, and safeguard ecosystems by utilizing renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydro.
2. Energy Security: Flying on finite fossil fuel reserves exposes governments to geopolitical threats and price volatility. Non-conventional energy resources provide a domestic and diverse energy supply, lowering reliance on imports while improving energy security.
3. Access to Energy: Non-conventional energy solutions can improve access to modern energy services in distant or underserved locations with limited or non-existent grid infrastructure. Off-grid solar systems, micro hydro schemes, and wind turbines can generate power for lighting, cooking, communication, and productive purposes, thereby boosting livelihoods and quality of life.
4. Technological Innovation: The development and implementation of non-traditional energy resources drives innovation and technological improvements in a variety of industries. Research and development efforts are focused on increasing efficiency, lowering prices, and incorporating renewable energy into existing infrastructure, paving the path for a more sustainable and resilient energy system.

1. About Biomass Energy – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biomass_(energy) ↩︎
2. About Hydropower – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydropower ↩︎
3. About Geothermal Energy – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geothermal_energy ↩︎