4.2   Energy Resources

The resources from which the electricity generated are called energy resources. Electricity is an important component of our life. No day-to-day activity takes without the use of this energy. It is also the key factor for all economic activities and industrial India - Resources and Industries development.

Energy resources can be classified into renewable and non-renewable. Coal, petroleum, natural gas and nuclear minerals are the sources of non renewable energy. Water, sun light, wind, biogas, tides etc., are the sources of renewable energy. Non-Renewable Energy Resources a) Coal Coal is an inflammable organic substance composed mainly of hydrocarbons.

Coal is available in the form of sedimentary rocks. It is used in the generation of thermal power. It has close association with the industrial development of any country. Based on carbon content, it is classified in to the following types.

Anthracite: to % Bituminous: to % Lignite: to % Peat: less than % Coal is an important source of energy in India with its varied and innumerable uses. It can be converted into gas, oil, electricity and thermal power. Besides, it forms a basic raw material for the production of chemicals, dyes, fertilizers, paints, synthetic and explosives. Indian coal is mostly associated with Gondwana series of rocks and is primarily found in Peninsular India.