Nuclear Energy

This new energy paradigm has major implications for the energy system. These include:
� Increasing useful energy or end-use of energy does not necessarily mean increasing energy
generation, it can also be achieved by:
� increasing the efficiency of the energy supply system and the energy transmission
system, and increasing the efficiency of the devices that convert the energy delivered to
the consumer into the required energy services (heaters, coolers, bulbs, etc.);
� curbing demand, especially by eliminating wasteful consumption of energy.
� Massively increasing the production of energy from renewable sources like the sun, wind,
flowing water (here, we are referring to small hydro power plants and not large hydro power
plants), waves and biomass – for which there is a huge potential in the country.
� Adopting decentralized energy systems where necessary, as they are often cheaper and more
efficient as compared to supplying electricity from a large centralized grid.
We take a look at all these three issues in some detail.
A. Implementing energy efficiency and energy conservation measures
Even a cursory look at the Indian power sector makes it evident that its overall efficiency is
very low as compared to international standards, as table 10.2 attests:
Table 10.2: Power Sector Efficiency in India dcxxxv
Power Sector Area Prevailing level
Generating capacity
utilization (Plant load factor)
Aggregate Technical &
Commercial losses (AT&C)
End use efficiency in
agriculture
End use efficiency in
industries and commerce
End use efficiency in other
areas
(domestic, street lights and
others)
of efficiency /
loss in India
International best
practice
Around 77 % More than 90%, to
100%
Around 32 % Less than 10%
45 – 50 % More than 80%
50 – 60 % More than 80%
20 – 30 % More than 80%
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