QUESTION BANK

YEAR & SEMESTER – IV & VII

CME365-RENEWABLE ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES

Unit-I

1. Identify the primary sources of conventional energy utilized in India. (CO1, K1)
The primary sources of conventional energy in India are coal, oil, and natural gas. These
sources dominate the energy mix due to their availability and established infrastructure.

2. Discuss two sectors that have the highest energy consumption in India. (CO1, K1)
The industrial and transportation sectors consume the most energy in India. These sectors
require large amounts of energy for manufacturing, logistics, and transportation services.

3. Explain the concept of renewable energy. (CO1, K1)

Renewable energy is derived from natural processes that are continuously replenished, such
as sunlight, wind, and water flow. It is considered sustainable and environmentally friendly.

4. Describe the current status of solar energy in India. (CO1, K1)

India has rapidly expanded its solar energy capacity with large solar farms and rooftop
installations, supported by government initiatives aiming to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

5. Highlight two potential renewable energy sources available in India. (CO1, K1)
Wind and biomass energy are two significant renewable sources in India. Both have
substantial potential due to the country's diverse geography and agricultural activities.
6. Clarify what is meant by per capita energy consumption. (CO1, K1)
Per capita energy consumption measures the average energy used by each person in a
specific area over a certain period, typically reflecting the level of development and lifestyle.

7. Illustrate how energy consumption in the transportation sector affects the

environment. (CO1, K1)
High energy consumption in transportation leads to significant environmental impacts,
including air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and climate change due to fossil fuel
combustion.

8. Summarize any two global trends in energy consumption. (CO1, K1)

Globally, there is a shift towards renewable energy and an increased focus on energy
efficiency. These trends aim to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainable
development.

9. Outline the future energy plans of India. (CO1, K1)

India plans to enhance its renewable energy capacity, decrease dependency on fossil fuels,
and boost energy efficiency through various initiatives and policy measures.

10. Identify one major challenge in adopting renewable energy in India. (CO1, K1)
A significant challenge is the inadequate infrastructure for energy storage and distribution,
which hinders the efficient integration of renewable energy into the national grid.

PART B

11. Analyze the current energy consumption patterns in India's domestic, industrial, and
commercial sectors. Discuss the factors influencing these patterns and their
implications for energy policy. (CO1, K3)

12. Evaluate the potential of various renewable energy sources in India. How can these
sources be integrated into the existing energy infrastructure to reduce dependence on
conventional energy? (CO1, K4)
13. Discuss the global energy status with a focus on renewable energy advancements.
Compare these advancements with the current renewable energy status in India,
highlighting opportunities and challenges. (CO1, K5)

14. Develop a comprehensive future energy plan for India. Address the role of renewable
energy, energy efficiency measures, and policy initiatives needed to meet future energy
demands and sustainability goals. (CO1, K6)

PART C

15. Critically assess the current status of conventional energy sources in India across
various sectors such as domestic, industrial, commercial, agriculture, and
transportation. Discuss the environmental and economic impacts of continued reliance
on these sources. (CO1, K4)

16. Propose a strategic plan for enhancing renewable energy adoption in India,
considering the potential of various renewable sources. Include recommendations for
policy changes, technological advancements, and economic incentives to support this
transition. (CO1, K6)
 Unit-II

PART A

1. Name one significant challenge in implementing solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in

urban areas. (CO2, K1)
A significant challenge in implementing solar PV systems in urban areas is the limited
availability of rooftop space due to high population density and existing infrastructure.

2. Define the term "solar spectrum" and explain its importance. (CO2, K1)
The solar spectrum refers to the range of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun,
including visible light, ultraviolet, and infrared radiation. It is important because it affects
the efficiency and design of solar energy systems.

3. Identify the primary function of flat plate solar thermal collectors. (CO2, K1)
The primary function of flat plate solar thermal collectors is to absorb solar radiation and
convert it into heat energy, which can be used for domestic hot water, space heating, or
industrial processes.

4. How do concentrating solar collectors differ from flat plate collectors? (CO2, K1)
Concentrating solar collectors use mirrors or lenses to focus sunlight onto a small area,
generating higher temperatures than flat plate collectors, which capture and absorb sunlight
over a larger surface area.

5. Describe an example of a solar thermal application. (CO2, K1)

One example of a solar thermal application is solar water heating systems, where solar
collectors heat water for domestic or industrial use, reducing the need for conventional water
heating methods.
6. Explain the concept of solar thermal energy storage. (CO2, K1)
Solar thermal energy storage involves capturing and storing the heat energy collected from
solar radiation during the day for use during periods without sunlight, such as nighttime or
cloudy days, to ensure a continuous energy supply.

7. What are the basic principles behind solar photovoltaic (PV) conversion? (CO2, K1)
Solar photovoltaic (PV) conversion is based on the principle of converting sunlight directly
into electricity using semiconductor materials that exhibit the photovoltaic effect, where
light energy is absorbed and generates an electric current.

8. Outline the working mechanism of solar cells. (CO2, K1)

Solar cells work by absorbing photons from sunlight, which energizes electrons in the
semiconductor material, creating electron-hole pairs. These electrons are then captured by an
electric field, generating an electric current.

9. Discuss the main components of a typical solar PV system. (CO2, K1)

A typical solar PV system includes solar panels to capture sunlight, an inverter to convert
DC electricity to AC, a mounting system to hold the panels, a battery for energy storage, and
a monitoring system to track performance.

10. List two practical applications of solar PV technology. (CO2, K1)

Solar PV technology is used in residential rooftop installations to generate electricity for
homes and in solar-powered street lighting systems to provide illumination without relying
on the grid.

PART B

11. Compare and contrast flat plate and concentrating solar thermal collectors. Evaluate
their respective efficiencies and applications in different contexts. (CO2, K3)

12. Analyze the factors influencing the efficiency of solar PV systems. Discuss technological
advancements that have enhanced the performance of solar PV systems over time.
(CO2, K4)
13. Critically examine the environmental impacts of widespread adoption of solar thermal
energy systems. Discuss mitigation strategies to minimize these impacts. (CO2, K5)

14. Evaluate the economic feasibility of integrating solar PV systems into urban
infrastructure. Include a cost-benefit analysis and discuss potential barriers to
adoption. (CO2, K6)

PART C

15. Discuss the role of solar radiation measurements and their significance in the design
and operation of solar energy systems. Evaluate different methods of measuring solar
radiation and their applicability in various geographical regions. (CO2, K3)

16. Explain the principles of solar thermal energy storage and its applications in enhancing
the efficiency and reliability of solar thermal systems. Compare different storage
technologies and their suitability for different scales of applications. (CO2, K4)
 Unit-III

PART A

1. Define the Betz limit in the context of wind energy. (CO3, K1)
The Betz limit, or Betz's law, states that the maximum theoretical efficiency of a wind
turbine is 59.3%. This means a wind turbine can only capture up to 59.3% of the kinetic
energy in the wind.

2. Discuss the importance of wind data collection for energy estimation in wind farms.
(CO3, K1)
Wind data collection is crucial for energy estimation as it helps determine the wind resource
availability, predict power output, and optimize turbine placement for maximum efficiency
and energy production.

3. Explain how characteristics of a site influence wind farm efficiency. (CO3, K1)
Site characteristics such as wind speed, direction, turbulence, and topography significantly
influence wind farm efficiency by affecting the amount of usable wind energy and the
optimal layout of turbines.

4. Name two factors considered in site selection for wind energy projects. (CO3, K1)
Two factors considered in site selection for wind energy projects are average wind speed and
proximity to the electrical grid, both of which impact energy production and transmission
efficiency.

5. Describe the components of a horizontal axis wind turbine (HAWT). (CO3, K1)
A horizontal axis wind turbine (HAWT) includes components such as the rotor blades,
nacelle, hub, gearbox, generator, tower, and control system, all working together to convert
wind energy into electrical power.
6. Differentiate between horizontal axis and vertical axis wind turbines (HAWT vs.
VAWT). (CO3, K1)
HAWTs have blades that rotate around a horizontal axis and are typically more efficient,
while VAWTs have blades that rotate around a vertical axis and can operate in variable wind
conditions and closer to the ground.

7. Evaluate the performance criteria of wind turbine generators. (CO3, K1)

Performance criteria for wind turbine generators include capacity factor, efficiency, cut-in
and cut-out wind speeds, durability, and maintenance requirements, all of which determine
the overall energy output and reliability.

8. Explain the concept of hybrid wind energy systems. (CO3, K1)

Hybrid wind energy systems combine wind turbines with other energy sources, such as solar
panels or diesel generators, to provide a more stable and reliable power supply, especially in
variable wind conditions.

9. Identify one environmental challenge associated with wind energy projects. (CO3, K1)
One environmental challenge is the impact on bird and bat populations, as turbine blades can
cause fatalities, necessitating careful site selection and mitigation strategies.

10. List two diverse applications of wind energy technology. (CO3, K1)
Wind energy technology is used for generating electricity for the power grid and for off-grid
applications like water pumping and remote telecommunications.

PART B

11. Critically analyze the impact of wind data accuracy on the estimation of wind energy
potential. Discuss methods to improve data accuracy and its implications for wind
farm planning and operation. (CO3, K2)
12. Evaluate the factors influencing the selection of sites for wind farms, emphasizing
environmental, economic, and social considerations. Assess how these factors
contribute to the success and sustainability of wind energy projects. (CO3, K3)
13. Examine the technological advancements in horizontal axis wind turbines (HAWT)
over the past decade. Discuss improvements in efficiency, design, and performance
factors influencing their widespread adoption in wind energy generation. (CO3, K4)

14. Discuss the advantages and limitations of vertical axis wind turbines (VAWT)
compared to horizontal axis counterparts. Evaluate their suitability for various
applications and environments, considering their unique design characteristics and
performance metrics. (CO3, K5)

PART C

15. Explore the significance of wind data and energy estimation in the planning and
operation of wind farms. Discuss advanced methods for wind resource assessment and
their impact on enhancing wind energy production efficiency and reliability. (CO3, K4)

16. Critically analyze the environmental challenges associated with the development and
operation of wind energy projects. Evaluate mitigation strategies and regulatory
frameworks aimed at addressing these challenges while ensuring sustainable wind
energy development. (CO3, K5)
 UNIT-IV

PART A

1. Explain the role of biomass direct combustion in renewable energy production. (CO4,
K1)
Biomass direct combustion involves burning organic materials like wood, agricultural
residues, and other biomass to produce heat and electricity. This method is one of the
simplest and oldest ways to generate renewable energy.

2. Describe how thermochemical processes support biomass energy systems. (CO4, K1)
Thermochemical processes, such as gasification, pyrolysis, and combustion, convert
biomass into useful energy forms like syngas, bio-oil, and heat, enhancing the efficiency and
versatility of biomass energy systems.

3. Explore the types of biomass gasifiers used in bio-energy applications. (CO4, K1)
Common types of biomass gasifiers include fixed-bed gasifiers (updraft and downdraft),
fluidized-bed gasifiers, and entrained-flow gasifiers, each varying in design and suitable for
different biomass types and applications.

4. Elaborate on cogeneration's implementation in biomass energy systems. (CO4, K1)

Cogeneration, or combined heat and power (CHP), involves using biomass to
simultaneously produce electricity and useful heat, maximizing energy efficiency and
reducing waste compared to separate heat and power generation.

5. Detail the significance of carbonisation in biomass energy technology. (CO4, K1)

Carbonisation is the process of converting biomass into charcoal through slow heating in the
absence of oxygen. It enhances the energy density of biomass, making it easier to transport
and store, and is a key step in producing biochar.

6. Explain pyrolysis and its impact on biomass energy production. (CO4, K1)
Pyrolysis is the thermal decomposition of biomass in the absence of oxygen, producing bio-
oil, syngas, and biochar. It provides a versatile method for converting biomass into liquid
and gaseous fuels, as well as soil-enhancing biochar.
7. Discuss the operational principles of biogas plants and their role in renewable energy.
(CO4, K1)
Biogas plants operate by anaerobically digesting organic matter, such as animal manure,
food waste, and agricultural residues, to produce biogas (mainly methane) and digestate.
Biogas can be used for electricity, heat, and as a vehicle fuel.

8. Describe the function of digesters in biogas production processes. (CO4, K1)

Digesters are sealed containers where anaerobic digestion occurs, converting organic
material into biogas and nutrient-rich digestate. They provide the controlled environment
needed for microorganisms to break down biomass effectively.

9. Outline the steps for producing biodiesel from biomass feedstocks. (CO4, K1)
Producing biodiesel involves extracting oil from biomass feedstocks (e.g., vegetable oils or
animal fats), transesterifying the oil with alcohol (usually methanol) in the presence of a
catalyst, and purifying the resulting biodiesel.

10. Detail the process of ethanol production from biomass and its applications as a
renewable fuel. (CO4, K1)
Ethanol production from biomass typically involves pretreating biomass to release
fermentable sugars, fermenting the sugars using yeast or bacteria to produce ethanol, and
distilling the ethanol for use as a renewable fuel in vehicles and for blending with gasoline.

PART B

11. Examine the environmental impacts of biomass direct combustion and compare them
with other renewable energy sources. (CO4, K2)

12. Evaluate the efficiency of thermochemical conversion processes in biomass energy

systems and discuss their technological advancements. (CO4, K3)
13. Analyze the economic viability of biochemical conversion methods in bio-energy
applications, considering their scalability and market competitiveness. (CO4, K4)
14. Compare the advantages and disadvantages of mechanical conversion techniques in
utilizing biomass for energy production, highlighting technological limitations and
innovations. (CO4, K5)

PART C

15. Investigate the advancements in thermochemical conversion technologies for biomass

energy systems, analyzing their efficiency improvements and technological innovations.
(CO4, K2)

16. Evaluate the environmental sustainability of biogas plants and their role in mitigating
greenhouse gas emissions, considering their operational principles and technological
advancements. (CO4, K3)
 UNIT-V

PART A

1. What are the key characteristics of small hydroelectric power plants, and how do they
contribute to renewable energy production? (CO5, K1)
Small hydroelectric power plants typically have capacities below 10 MW and utilize flowing
water to generate electricity. They are often environmentally friendly, with minimal
ecological disruption, and contribute to renewable energy by providing consistent, low-cost
power in remote or rural areas.

2. Explain the operational principles of tidal energy generation systems and their
potential as a reliable renewable energy source. (CO5, K1)
Tidal energy systems generate electricity by capturing the energy from the rise and fall of
tides using tidal turbines or barrages. They offer reliable and predictable energy generation
due to the regularity of tidal cycles, making them a promising renewable energy source.

3. Discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with harnessing wave energy for
electricity generation. (CO5, K1)
Challenges include high costs, technological immaturity, and environmental concerns.
Opportunities lie in the vast, untapped energy potential of ocean waves, which can provide a
significant, sustainable power source if technological and economic barriers are overcome.

4. Compare the open and closed cycles of Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC)
and their suitability for different environmental conditions. (CO5, K1)
Open-cycle OTEC uses warm seawater to produce steam directly, while closed-cycle OTEC
uses a working fluid with a low boiling point. Open cycles are suitable for areas with a
significant temperature difference between surface and deep waters, while closed cycles can
operate in a broader range of conditions but require more complex infrastructure.

5. Describe the limitations of OTEC technology in achieving widespread adoption as a

renewable energy solution. (CO5, K1)
OTEC technology faces limitations such as high initial costs, complex engineering
requirements, and environmental impacts on marine ecosystems. Its efficiency is also
dependent on specific geographic locations with sufficient temperature gradients.
6. Explain the concept of geothermal energy and its significance as a sustainable energy
source. (CO5, K1)
Geothermal energy is derived from the heat stored within the Earth, accessed through wells
and used for electricity generation or direct heating. It is sustainable, providing a continuous
and stable energy supply with low greenhouse gas emissions.

7. Identify the primary sources of geothermal energy and their distribution worldwide.
(CO5, K1)
Primary sources include geothermal reservoirs found in volcanic regions, hot springs, and
geysers. Major geothermal resources are located in the United States, Iceland, the
Philippines, Indonesia, and New Zealand.

8. Compare the different types of geothermal power plants and their respective efficiency
in electricity generation. (CO5, K1)
The three main types are dry steam, flash steam, and binary cycle power plants. Dry steam
plants are the most efficient, using steam directly from geothermal reservoirs. Flash steam
plants use high-pressure hot water, and binary cycle plants use secondary fluids with lower
boiling points, suitable for moderate temperature resources.

9. Discuss the applications of geothermal energy in heating, electricity generation, and

direct use technologies. (CO5, K1)
Geothermal energy is used for electricity generation in power plants, direct heating
applications such as district heating, greenhouse heating, and industrial processes, and direct
use technologies like geothermal heat pumps for residential heating and cooling.

10. Examine the environmental impact of geothermal power plants and strategies for
mitigating their ecological footprint. (CO5, K1)
Geothermal power plants can cause land subsidence, water contamination, and greenhouse
gas emissions. Mitigation strategies include proper site selection, reinjection of geothermal
fluids, using closed-loop systems to prevent contamination, and adopting advanced emission
control technologies.

PART B
11. Evaluate the economic feasibility of small hydroelectric power projects compared to
other renewable energy options, considering investment costs and long-term returns.
(CO5, K2)
12. Assess the environmental impact of tidal energy installations and propose measures to
mitigate potential ecological disruptions in coastal areas. (CO5, K3)

13. Analyze the technological advancements in wave energy conversion systems and their
potential to contribute significantly to global renewable energy portfolios. (CO5, K4)

14. Investigate the geopolitical implications of utilizing geothermal energy resources for
national energy security and independence, considering global energy trends and
political dynamics. (CO5, K5)

PART C

15. Examine the technological advancements in tidal energy generation systems, evaluating
their efficiency improvements and potential for scalable deployment in coastal regions.
(CO5, K2)

16. Investigate the environmental and economic feasibility of geothermal energy projects
in diverse geographical regions, analyzing their sustainability and socio-economic
impacts. (CO5, K3)