Scope and Application of Solar Thermal Energy in India-A Review

Energy is available in two different alternatives, non-renewable (coal, petroleum, natural gas) and renewable (solar, wind, small hydro) sources. In recent years solar energy has received great deal of attention as an easily utilizable source of renewable energy for providing electricity. Renewable energy sources like solar are indigenous and can help in reducing the dependency on fossil fuels. Solar energy provides a variable and environmentally friendly option and national energy security at a time when decreasing global reserves of fossil fuels threatens the long-term sustainability of the global economy. The solar energy can be utilized in two ways: one is solar photovoltaic and the other is solar thermal. This paper describes the generation of electricity through solar thermal energy in an Indian perspective, discussing technology options, their current status, and the opportunities and challenges in developing solar thermal power plants in the context of India.