Renewable Energy: Concepts, Technologies and Applications
Contents: 1. Energy. 2. Classification of energy sources. 3. Harnessing the sun, wind, and earth: the rise of renewable energy. 4. Introduction to renewable energy sources. 5. Renewable energy-potentials and achievements. 6. Characterization of biomass. 7. Biomass briquetting– a value adding technology for Agro residues. 8. Biomass combustion technology. 9. Biomass gasification technology. 10. Removal of tar and other impurities in biomass gasification. 11. Biomass pyrolysis technology. 12. Biogas technology. 13. Biogas plants: types and technologies. 14. Selection of construction materials used in biogas plants. 15. Biofuels and their characteristics. 16. Biodiesel: overview. 17. Biodiesel production: a comprehensive overview. 18. Bio-ethanol production flowchart and applications in the transport sector. 19. Biofuels: importance, demand, and growth in the transport sector. 20. Basics of solar photovoltaics. 21. Recent trends in solar drying: solar tunnel dryer. 22. Solar driers: principles and types. 23. Solar PV systems: principles and water pumping applications. 24. Solar water heater: principles and applications. 25. Hydro energy conversion system. 26. Wind energy: principles and applications. 27. Wind power generation: principles and applications. 28. Energy conservation in agriculture: overview and significance.
The book begins with an exploration of energy itself and the classification of energy sources, providing a foundational understanding necessary to appreciate the complexities of sustainable energy dynamics. This is followed by an in-depth analysis of renewables, from solar and wind to biomass and biofuels, detailing their potentials, technology advancements, and practical applications in modern society.
Each technology is examined critically, considering both its advantages and challenges, including biomass characterization and its associated technologies such as briquetting, combustion, gasification, and pyrolysis. The discussions extend into vital considerations for biogas technology and the selection of construction materials for biogas plants, all while emphasizing the critical role of biofuels in achieving energy security and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Furthermore, this book addresses the unique applications of renewable energy technologies, including solar photovoltaics, solar water heaters, hydro energy conversion systems, and wind power generation—each presented with principles essential for understanding their operation and application. Special focus is given to energy conservation in agriculture, highlighting the significance of efficiency in this vital sector.
