Impact of influencing parameters on the prediction of Indian energy demand with special reference to renewables

Exponential increase in the population growth rate (PGR) in India has resulted in energy being consumed at an alarming rate. Transportation sector consumes around 61 % of the petroleum products, a major portion of which is being imported. Alternate sources to replace oil have to be found. It is believed that hydrogen, CNG and ethanol can contribute around 50 %, 30 % and 20 % respectively in another 10 years. The maximum potential of wind power of 20000 MW could be reached in 2006-07 with a growth rate of 50 %. In the case of solar thermal power the maximum potential of 10x 109 KWhr could be achieved in 2007-08 with a 100 % growth rate. The maximum potential of biomass of 17000 MW could be reached at 50 % growth in 2008-09.