ENERGY
Formulation of a Wind Energy Programme for Karnataka

Wind, as a renewable source of energy, has not been exploited in any significant measure. Except in the case of a few European Countries, wind energy accounts for a negligible fraction of the total spectrum of energy consumption in most countries. However, this scenario is changing, albeit very gradually. Apart from the 'energy crisis' (the focus have being the conventional energy resources), there are a number of socio-economic factors that provide the rationale for a search for new energy resources and for an increased emphasis on the hitherto non-conventional sources of power. These factors are all the more pertinent for an underdeveloped country such as India. Given the criteria of cost-effectiveness, they necessitate a system of energy generation, distribution and consumption that is an optimal mix of centralised and decentralised mechanism and draw upon both conventional and non-conventional energy resources.

The study team has completed its work and final reports have been prepared. Based on the analysis of wind data collected from 22 meteorological stations spread over Karnataka, the working group has arrived at certain conclusions.

It is proposed to pursue the project into a follow-up phase with the aim of concentrating on these specific jobs. Salient among these recommendations are :


1. Set up wind measurement station in at least one of the relatively windier districts (Bangalore, Bidar, Gulbarg and Raichur) to obtain a detailed wind data. This is necessary to obtain a better estimate of the annual energy, flux in the wind and also to ascertain the likely output that can be expected out of any windmill.

2. Initiate developmental work on windmill systems for water pumping (the system includes rotors, towers, pumps and load-matching devices)

3. Set up windmills of different designs om certain areas of the state where both the availability of and the
demand for the wind energy are likely to be high.


4. Identify possibilities of using windmills as a source of energy for multiple activities in rural areas.

5. Carry out an intensive wind survey in the State to identify favourable windy sites where large scale extraction of wind energy may be possible.

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