Renewable energy is seen as the future of sustainable power, helping solve environmental and economic problems linked to traditional energy sources. Despite its growing use, myths still affect public views. This article aims to clear up these misunderstandings with facts, focusing on India.

Myth 1: Renewable Energy is Too Expensive
Many believe R.E. is too expensive, but while initial costs for solar panels and wind turbines are high, long-term savings often justify the investment.

Reality: The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) states that solar photovoltaic (PV) system costs have plummeted by over 80% in the last decade. In India, the price of solar PV has dropped from ₹90 per watt in 2010 to about ₹20 per watt in 2023, making it much more affordable.

Example: A 5 kW solar PV system, costing approximately ₹100,000, generates around 20 kWh daily. With the average electricity rate at ₹8 per kWh, this system can save ₹4,800 per month, paying for itself in less than 2.5 years.

Myth 2: R.E. Sources Are Unreliable
Some claim solar and wind energy are too weather-dependent, but technological advances have greatly improved their reliability.

Reality: The Energy Storage Association reports that contemporary battery storage can hold energy for up to 12 hours, addressing intermittency concerns. In India, investments like the 100 MW grid-scale battery system in Tamil Nadu are improving the reliability of renewable energy.

Example: Solar panels produce power even on cloudy days, with surplus energy stored for later use.

Myth 3: Renewable Energy Can't Meet Large-Scale Energy Needs
There is a belief that renewable energy cannot meet the demands of large cities or industries. However, this myth is being disproved as renewable energy infrastructure expands.

Reality: India is making significant progress, with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) reporting that 19.6% of the country’s electricity came from renewable sources in 2023, thanks to major wind farms and solar parks.

Example: The Kutch Solar Park in Gujarat, one of the largest globally, has a 2.5 GW capacity, enough to power over 2.5 million homes. Tamil Nadu’s wind farms, with over 8 GW capacity, show that R.E. can meet large-scale demands.

Myth 4: Renewable Energy is Harmful to the Environment
Some believe that making and disposing of R.E. technologies, like solar panels and wind turbines, can harm the environment. But even with some impact, R.E. is still much cleaner than fossil fuels.

Reality: The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) states that solar panels have a lifecycle carbon footprint of about 20 grams of CO2 per kWh, compared to 900 grams per kWh for coal.

Example: A 5 kW solar PV system can offset around 15 tons of CO2 over its 25-year lifespan, reducing environmental impact despite the resources used in its production.

Myth 5: Renewable Energy Technologies Require Too Much Land
A misconception exists that R.E. installations need excessive land. While large-scale setups require space, they can be integrated with other land uses.

Reality: Solar farms can be installed on rooftops or non-agricultural land, such as deserts. Wind turbines can be placed offshore or on farmland, allowing dual land use.

Example: The Charanka Solar Park in Gujarat occupies 2,000 hectares in a desert region unsuitable for agriculture. Wind farms in Maharashtra and Karnataka are often on agricultural lands, with turbines taking up only a small portion, allowing farming to continue.

Conclusion
R.E. is often misunderstood, and myths can slow down progress toward sustainability. By providing clear and accurate information, we can understand its true potential. As India invests in these technologies, it's important to see their ability to offer reliable, affordable, and eco-friendly power.

References:
  1. IRENA – International Renewable Energy Agency
  2. Energy Storage Association
  3. Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
  4. National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)

Understanding the reality of R.E. enables informed decisions and supports the shift to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.

Summarised by Kunal Verma
Energy efficiency ratings are crucial for homeowners and buyers focusing on sustainability and cost savings. In India, with increasing energy use and environmental concerns, knowing how these ratings affect home value is essential. This article explains energy efficiency ratings, their impact on home value, and provides examples.

What is an Energy Efficiency Rating?
An energy efficiency rating evaluates how well a home uses energy, considering insulation, windows, and heating/cooling systems. In India, the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) rates buildings and appliances from 1 to 5 stars, with 1 being least efficient and 5 being most efficient.

Impact on Home Value
Lower Operating Costs
Energy-efficient homes cost less to run. For instance, a 5-star rated home could cut energy bills by 20-30% compared to a 1-star home. Upgrading from 1 star to 5 stars can save up to ₹15,000 annually. In Delhi, a 5-star home could reduce monthly bills by ₹500 to ₹750, saving ₹6,000 to ₹9,000 yearly.

Higher Property Value
Efficient homes are more valuable because they offer lower costs and better comfort, attracting buyers willing to pay more. Research shows these homes can sell for 7-10% more in cities like Mumbai and Bangalore, adding ₹7-10 lakh to a ₹1 crore property. A JLL India study found a 5% price increase for energy-efficient homes in Gurgaon.

Long-Term Investment
Investing in energy-efficient upgrades, such as solar panels and efficient windows, boosts property value over time. Homes with green certifications typically see a 15-20% return on investment (ROI). Such upgrades enhance market appeal and value.

Appealing to Eco-Conscious Buyers
As environmental awareness rises, buyers prefer energy-efficient homes. High ratings attract those aiming to reduce their carbon footprint. The Green Building Council of India (GBCI) notes increased demand for eco-friendly properties, especially among younger buyers. For example, an eco-friendly project attracted more interest than similar non-efficient projects.

Improving Energy Efficiency
To boost your home’s rating:
  1. Upgrade Insulation: Reduces energy loss.
  2. Install Efficient Windows: Maintain indoor temperatures.
  3. Use Efficient Appliances: Consume less energy.
  4. Adopt Renewable Solutions: Solar panels improve efficiency.
  5. Conduct Energy Audits: Identify and address inefficiencies.

Conclusion
Understanding and improving your home’s energy efficiency rating can lower costs, enhance value, and attract buyers. In India’s growing market, investing in energy efficiency is a wise financial and environmental choice, contributing to sustainability and potentially increasing market value.

References:
  1. Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) - National Association of Realtors
  2. Indian Green Building Council (IGBC)
  3. JLL India


Summarised by Kunal Verma
In a country as dynamic as India, where energy needs are surging, saving energy is not just vital for the planet—it's also a savvy way to save money. A home energy audit is a simple yet effective way to identify areas where your home is wasting energy and to find solutions that can reduce your consumption, lower your electricity bills, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

What is a Home Energy Audit?
A home energy audit is a comprehensive assessment of your home’s energy use. It helps you understand where and how energy is being wasted and what steps can be taken to improve efficiency. In India, where the average household consumes about 90-150 units of electricity per month, an energy audit can significantly reduce consumption and costs.

Why Conduct a Home Energy Audit?
By identifying energy wastage, a home energy audit can help reduce electricity bills by up to 30%. For an average Indian household, this could mean savings of ₹300 to ₹1,000 per month. Improving your home’s energy efficiency can lead to more consistent indoor temperatures, better air quality, and overall enhanced comfort. Energy savings directly translate into reduced carbon emissions. In India, where coal still accounts for about 55% of electricity generation, reducing energy use helps lower the carbon footprint.

Step-by-Step Guide to Conducting a Home Energy Audit
  1. Check for Air Leaks, Walls and Floors: Inspect windows and doors for gaps and cracks. Use weatherstripping or caulking to seal these leaks. In India, up to 20% of energy used for heating or cooling can be lost through air leaks. Sealing these leaks can save up to 10-15% on heating and cooling costs, translating to savings of ₹200-₹500 per month. Check for gaps around electrical outlets, baseboards, and vents. Sealing these gaps can prevent energy loss.
  2. Inspect Insulation: Proper insulation is crucial, especially in regions with extreme temperatures. Inadequate insulation in Indian homes can result in up to 35% energy loss. Check the attic, walls, and floors. If insulation is insufficient, consider adding more, especially in areas with a cold or hot climate. Upgrading insulation can reduce energy usage by 10-20%, potentially saving ₹300-₹600 per month on energy bills.
  3. Evaluate Heating & Cooling Systems: Air Conditioners: Ensure your AC is serviced regularly. Dirty filters can reduce efficiency by up to 15%. Replacing old ACs with energy-efficient models can save up to 30% on cooling costs. For example, switching to a 5-star rated AC can save ₹500-₹1,000 per month during peak summer months.
  4. Ceiling Fans & Heaters: Use ceiling fans to reduce the need for air conditioning. In India, a ceiling fan consumes around 75W, while an AC consumes 1,000-2,000W. By using ceiling fans more often, you can reduce energy consumption by 10-15%, saving ₹200-₹400 per month. If you use electric heaters, check for efficiency. Consider alternatives like solar water heaters, which can save up to 80% on water heating costs, translating to savings of ₹500-₹800 per month.
  5. Examine Lighting: Lighting accounts for about 10-20% of the average household electricity bill. Replace incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED bulbs. LEDs use up to 80% less energy and last 25 times longer. For example, replacing five 60W incandescent bulbs with 9W LEDs can save approximately ₹200-₹300 per month on your electricity bill.
  6. Assess Appliances, Televisions and Other Electronics: Check the seals on your refrigerator door. A faulty seal can increase energy consumption by up to 25%. Also, consider replacing old refrigerators with models that have a 5-star energy rating. This can save you ₹300-₹500 per month. Unplug devices when not in use, as they can consume up to 10% of energy even when turned off, known as "phantom load." Reducing phantom load can save ₹100-₹200 per month.
  7. Check Water Usage, Showers and Faucets: Reduce the temperature setting on your water heater to 50°C. For each 10°C reduction, you can save 3-5% on energy costs. This could translate to savings of ₹100-₹200 per month. Install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators. This can reduce water heating costs by up to 50%, saving ₹200-₹400 per month.
  8. Use Smart Technology Energy Management Systems: Installing a smart meter can help track energy usage in real-time. Smart thermostats can optimize heating and cooling, saving up to 10% on energy costs. This could result in savings of ₹300-₹500 per month. Consider investing in home energy management systems that can automate and optimize energy use across various appliances, leading to additional savings of ₹200-₹400 per month.

Taking Action: Fixing Energy Wastage
After conducting your audit, create a list of necessary improvements. Start with the easiest and most cost-effective fixes, such as sealing leaks and switching to LED bulbs. Gradually invest in larger projects like upgrading insulation or replacing old appliances with energy-efficient models. In India, these changes can pay off quickly, with a return on investment within 1-3 years due to lower energy bills.

Conclusion
Conducting a home energy audit is an essential step toward making your home more energy-efficient. By identifying and fixing energy wastage, you can significantly reduce your electricity bills, improve comfort, and contribute to environmental sustainability. With energy costs rising and the need for energy conservation becoming more critical, there has never been a better time to take control of your energy usage. Start your home energy audit today and see the difference it makes.

Summarised by Kunal Verma
Agrivoltaics, also known as agrophotovoltaics (APV), is a concept that combines agriculture with photovoltaic solar energy production. It involves installing solar panels above crops or livestock, creating a dual-use system where both agricultural activities and solar energy generation can occur on the same land.

Why we need it?
  1. Agrivoltaics allows for the simultaneous use of land for both agriculture and solar energy generation. This is particularly valuable in regions where land is limited or expensive, enabling the efficient use of available space.
  2. Farmers can earn revenue from leasing land for solar installations or selling the generated electricity, providing financial diversification and stability.
  3. Farmers who own and operate their own agrivoltaics systems can sell the electricity they generate, either through direct sales or contracts with utilities.
Agrivoltaics is essential for addressing modern challenges related to land use, energy demand, climate change, and agricultural sustainability. By combining solar energy with farming, we can make efficient use of resources, reduce environmental impact, and support economic and community development.

Government initiatives to promote Solar Energy
  1. PM KUSUM Yojana
    1. Kusum Scheme implemented by: The Ministry responsible for this scheme is the New and Renewable Energy Ministry.
    2. 10000 Mega Watts Solar plants will be put up on lands that are barren.
    3. The state electricity distribution companies, also called, DISCOMS will buy the additional solar power produced by the farmers on barren lands. DISCOMS will get sops to buy this electricity.
    4. Farmers will get a subsidy of 60% on solar pumps. It shall be deposited to their bank accounts directly. This subsidy is going to be shared by the central and state governments. 30% of the cost will be obtained as a bank loan. Hence, only the rest 10% will have to be borne by the farmers themselves.
    5. The approved scheme comprised of three components:
      Component-A: Addition of 10,000 MW of solar capacity through the installation of small solar power plants of capacity up to 2 MW.
      Component-B: Installation of 20 lakh standalone solar-powered agricultural pumps.
      Component C : Solarization of 15 lakh existing Grid-connected Agriculture Pumps.
    PM-KUSUM scheme is one of the largest initiatives of the world to provide clean energy to more than 35 lakhs farmers by solarizing their agriculture pump under components B and C.

  2. Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture

    The Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture or MIDH is a scheme for the holistic growth and development of the Indian horticulture sector.
    1. This Centrally Sponsored scheme covers vegetables, fruits, roots and tuber crops, aromatic plants, flowers, spices, bamboo, coconut, cashew and cocoa.
    2. MIDH also provides technical support and advice to state horticultural missions, Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY), Saffron Mission and the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA).
    3. MIDH is under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, GOI.
    4. The strategies to improve the horticulture segment employed by the scheme include technology promotion, research, post-harvest management, extension, processing and marketing. The scheme emphasizes using differentiated strategies for different states based on the region’s agro-climatic features.

  3. Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana
    1. The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) is an important government scheme related to water conservation and management.
    2. Increasing accessibility of irrigation facilities and expansion of cultivable range under guaranteed irrigation areas (Har Khet ko Pani)
    3. Enhancing On-Farm water use efficiency to lessen wastage of water
    4. Integrating the source, distribution, and efficiency of water through appropriate technologies
    5. Enhancing and promoting the implementation of precision- irrigation and other water-saving technologies (More crop per drop)
Effects on Crops due to Agrivoltaics

Positive Effects
  1. Microclimate Regulation : Solar panels can provide partial shade, which can be beneficial in hot climates by reducing soil temperatures and preventing heat stress in plants
  2. Enhanced Crop Yield and Quality : Crops may experience less thermal stress due to shaded conditions, potentially leading to improved growth and yield in some cases.
  3. Improved Soil Health : With proper management, agrivoltaic systems can minimize the need for heavy machinery in the fields, which can help in reducing soil compaction and preserving soil structure.

Negative Effects
  1. Reduced Light Availability: The shade from solar panels can reduce the amount of sunlight reaching crops, which may negatively impact photosynthesis and growth, especially for light-loving plants.
  2. Competition for Space: The installation of solar panels requires space, which could otherwise be used for growing crops. This spatial competition needs to be carefully managed to balance energy production with crop cultivation.
  3. Temperature Variability: While some crops benefit from reduced temperatures, others might suffer if they require more direct sunlight and warmth for optimal growth.

Agrivoltaics offers a promising approach to maximizing land use by integrating solar energy production with agriculture. It presents opportunities for increased land efficiency, enhanced soil and water conservation, and improved energy sustainability, while also requiring careful planning and management to address the associated challenges.

Ownership models for agrivoltaics (agrivoltaics) can vary depending on the scale of the project, the stakeholders involved, and the specific objectives of the installation.
  1. Individual Farmer Ownership : Farmers directly benefit from both the energy produced and any additional income from selling surplus electricity.
  2. Cooperatives or Farmer Groups : Multiple farmers or landowners form a cooperative to share the costs and benefits of an agrivoltaics system.
  3. Corporate Ownership : Agrivoltaics systems are owned and operated by private companies or corporations.
  4. Public-Private Partnerships : Collaborations between government bodies and private companies or organizations to develop and manage agrivoltaics projects.
  5. Lease and Rental Models : Farmers lease their land to solar developers who install and operate the agrivoltaics system.
Summarised by Ankit Aayan
The term "carbon footprint" measures the amount of pollution we generate through our energy usage. When we drive a car, use electricity, or make purchases, we rely on energy sources that often involve burning fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, or gas. This process releases gases, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2), into the atmosphere. These gases contribute to trapping heat, which leads to changes in the climate. By conserving energy and making more environmentally friendly choices, we can reduce our carbon footprint and help to safeguard the planet.

Statistics
  1. Global energy-related CO2 emissions grew by 1.1% in 2023, increasing 410 million tons (Mt) to reach a new record high of 37.4 billion tons. This compares with an increase of 490 Mt in 2022 (1.3%). Emissions from coal accounted for more than 65% of the increase in 2023. Read More.
  2. Between 2019 and 2023, total energy-related emissions increased around 900 Mt. Without the growing deployment of five key clean energy technologies since 2019 - solar photovoltaic, wind, nuclear, heat pumps, and electric cars - the emissions growth would have been three times higher. Read More.
  3. Cars and light trucks emitted 1.05 billion metric tons emissions in 2021. Read More.

Causes of Carbon Emissions

Several human activities contribute to the carbon footprint:
  1. Burning of Fossil Fuels: The combustion of coal, oil, and natural gas for energy and transportation is the primary source of CO2 emissions. Power plants, vehicles, and industries are significant contributors.
  2. Deforestation: Trees absorb CO2, acting as carbon sinks. However, deforestation for agriculture, urban development, and logging reduces this capacity, releasing stored carbon into the atmosphere.
  3. Agriculture: Livestock farming, especially cattle, produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Rice paddies and the use of synthetic fertilizers also contribute to green house gas emissions.
  4. Industrial Processes: The production of cement, steel, and chemicals emits large amounts of CO2. The extraction and processing of raw materials also add to the carbon footprint.
Measures to Control Carbon Emissions

Addressing carbon footprints requires a multi-faceted approach involving individuals, businesses, and government. Here are some essential strategies:
  1. Transition to Renewable Energy: Shifting from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydroelectric power can significantly reduce CO2 emissions. As of 2022, renewables account for about 29% of global electricity generation, and this share needs to increase rapidly.
  2. Energy Efficiency: Improving energy efficiency in buildings, industries, and transportation can reduce energy demand and emissions. Technologies such as LED lighting, energy-efficient appliances, and electric vehicles are vital in this regard.
  3. Reforestation and Afforestation: Planting trees and restoring forests can enhance carbon sequestration. Initiatives like the Bonn Challenge aim to restore 350 million hectares of degraded land by 2030, potentially absorbing 1.7 billion metric tons of CO2 annually.
  4. Carbon Pricing: Implementing carbon taxes or cap-and-trade systems can incentivize businesses to reduce emissions. As of 2023, around 20% of global green house gas emissions are covered by carbon pricing mechanisms, with further expansion needed.
  5. Behavioral Changes: Individuals can reduce their carbon footprint by adopting sustainable practices such as using public transportation, reducing meat consumption, and minimizing waste.

Summarised by Deepanshi Negi
When you use electricity at home, you might hear words like "Kilowatt" (kW) and "Kilowatt-hour" (kWh). They sound similar, but they actually mean different things. Let’s break it down so you can understand what they are and why they matter.

What is a Kilowatt (kW)?
A Kilowatt is a way to measure power. Power is like the strength of electricity that a device uses at any given moment. For example, if you have a hairdryer that uses 1,000 watts, that’s equal to 1 kilowatt (kW). It tells you how powerful the hairdryer is when it’s turned on. The more kilowatts something uses, the more electricity it needs to work.
Think of kilowatts as the speed of a car. A car that can go 100 miles per hour is faster than one that goes 50 miles per hour. In the same way, a 2 kW air conditioner uses more power than a 1 kW fan.

What is a Kilowatt-Hour (kWh)?
A Kilowatt-hour is a way to measure energy. Energy is the total amount of electricity you use over time. If you run that 1 kW hairdryer for one hour, you’ll use 1 kWh of energy. Kilowatt-hours are what you see on your electricity bill. They tell you how much electricity you’ve used in a day, a week, or a month.
Imagine you’re filling a bucket with water. The water coming out of the hose is like the power (kW). The amount of water that fills the bucket after some time is like the energy (kWh). The longer you run the hose, the more water (energy) you collect.

Why Should You Care?
Understanding the difference between Kilowatt and Kilowatt-hour helps you know how electricity works at home:
  1. Kilowatt (kW): This helps you see how much power a device uses when it’s on.
  2. Kilowatt-hour (kWh): This shows you how much electricity you’ve used over time and how it adds up on your bill.
Knowing this can help you be smart about how you use electricity. For example, if you leave a high-power device on for a long time, it will use more kilowatt-hours, which means a higher electricity bill.

Summarised by Binwant Kaur

India ranks as the third largest producer of electricity globally. In the fiscal year 2022–23, the nation's total electricity generation amounted to approximately 1,844 terawatt-hours (TWh) (with 1 billion units equating to 1 TWh). India's electricity generation is notably more carbon-intensive, producing 713 grams of CO2 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), compared to the global average of 480 grams CO2 per kWh. In 2023, coal accounted for three-quarters of India's electricity generation. This high level of carbon emission is a major contributor to extensive air pollution and significantly impacts climate change, which is a critical concern for Earth in the 21st century.

To mitigate carbon emissions, it is essential to transition from fossil fuels to non-fossil fuel energy sources and to curtail unnecessary energy consumption.

The benefits of energy conservation include:

  1. Cost Savings: Renewable energy sources like solar power can significantly lower electricity bills. Once the initial investment in solar panels is made, the ongoing cost of generating electricity is minimal. Solar energy systems can reduce or even eliminate monthly electricity charges. Another added advantage is the grant of government subsidies to incentivize the usage of renewable energy. There are various financial incentives offered such as tax credits, rebates, or grants to reduce the upfront costs of renewable energy installations.
  2. Job Creation: The energy efficiency sector has the potential to create millions of jobs. The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) estimates that energy conservation initiatives could generate over 10 million jobs.
  3. Improved Air Quality: Energy-saving measures reduce the demand for coal and other fossil fuels, leading to better air quality. Enhanced air quality translates into lower healthcare costs related to pollution-induced illnesses.
Thus, Transitioning to more sustainable energy practices not only addresses pressing environmental challenges but also offers economic and health benefits. By embracing energy efficiency and renewable sources, India can contribute to a more sustainable future while improving quality of life and economic opportunities for its citizens.

Save Energy and Save Planet 🌏

Summarised by Kunal Verma