MEENAKSHI RAMASWAMY ENGINEERING COLLEGE

(Approved by AICTE, New Delhi, Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai-25)

DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS
ENGINNERING
CME 365 RENEWABLE ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES

QUSTION BANK

UNIT – I: ENERGY SCENARIO

PART A

2 MARKS QUESTIONS AND ANSWER

Part-A: 2 Marks Questions with Answers

1. What is the current status of energy consumption in India?

o India is highly dependent on conventional energy sources like coal, oil, and
natural gas, while the renewable energy sector is growing steadily, contributing to
a cleaner energy mix.
2. What are the major energy sectors in India?
o The major energy sectors in India include domestic, industrial, commercial,
agricultural, and transportation sectors.
3. What is the status of conventional energy sources in India?
o Conventional energy sources in India, such as coal, natural gas, and oil, still
dominate the energy mix, but their share is slowly declining as renewable sources
are being adopted.
4. What is the contribution of renewable energy in India's energy consumption?
o Renewable energy contributes around 25-30% of India’s total installed power
capacity, with solar, wind, and biomass energy playing major roles.
5. What is the potential of solar energy in India?
o India has immense potential for solar energy due to its large land area and high
solar insolation, with an estimated potential of over 750 GW.
6. What is the role of wind energy in India’s energy scenario?
o India has the 4th largest installed capacity for wind energy in the world, with
significant wind energy potential, especially in coastal regions.
7. What is the status of biomass energy in India?
o Biomass energy plays an important role in rural India, especially in the form of
biogas, biomass power plants, and waste-to-energy systems, contributing to rural
electrification.
8. What is the potential of hydro energy in India?
o India has a vast hydroelectric potential, estimated at about 148,000 MW, though
only a small fraction of this has been harnessed so far.
9. What is the importance of geothermal energy in India?
 MEENAKSHI RAMASWAMY ENGINEERING COLLEGE
(Approved by AICTE, New Delhi, Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai-25)
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS
ENGINNERING
o India has geothermal potential, particularly in regions like Ladakh, the Himalayas,
and the western coast, but it remains largely untapped due to high initial costs.
10. What are the challenges faced by the renewable energy sector in India?
o Challenges include the intermittency of renewable sources, high initial capital
costs, grid integration issues, and land acquisition problems.
11. How does the agriculture sector contribute to India’s energy consumption?
o The agriculture sector contributes through the use of electricity for irrigation, farm
machinery, and biomass for cooking in rural areas.
12. What is the status of energy consumption in the industrial sector?
o The industrial sector in India is the largest energy consumer, especially in
manufacturing industries like steel, cement, textiles, and chemicals.
13. What are the energy requirements of the transportation sector in India?
o The transportation sector is primarily reliant on petroleum products like petrol and
diesel, but electric vehicles (EVs) are emerging as a sustainable alternative.
14. What is the present per capita energy consumption in India?
o The per capita energy consumption in India is around 1,200 kWh, which is lower
than the global average, highlighting the need for increased energy access.
15. What is India’s plan for the future energy mix?
o India aims to increase its renewable energy capacity significantly, with targets
like 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, while continuing to diversify its
energy sources.
16. How does India plan to address energy access issues in rural areas?
o India is focusing on decentralized renewable energy solutions, such as solar
microgrids, rural electrification schemes, and off-grid energy solutions.
17. What is India’s target for renewable energy capacity by 2030?
o India aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based energy capacity by 2030,
along with achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070.
18. What is the role of hydrogen energy in India’s energy future?
o Hydrogen energy, particularly green hydrogen, is being explored as a clean
alternative for decarbonizing heavy industries and transportation.
19. What is the status of nuclear energy in India?
o Nuclear energy currently contributes about 2-3% of India’s total energy mix, with
plans to increase the share of nuclear energy in the coming years through new
reactors.
20. What are the global energy trends affecting India?
o Global energy trends such as the transition to cleaner energy, the growth of
renewable energy technologies, and climate change policies are influencing
India’s energy strategy.
 MEENAKSHI RAMASWAMY ENGINEERING COLLEGE
(Approved by AICTE, New Delhi, Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai-25)
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS
ENGINNERING
Part-B: 13 Mark Questions

1. Discuss the current energy scenario in India, including the major energy sectors
(domestic, industrial, commercial, agriculture, and transportation) and their
contribution to the overall energy consumption.
2. Evaluate the present status and potential of renewable energy sources in India,
including solar, wind, biomass, and hydro energy. Discuss the challenges and
opportunities for each of these sources.
3. Explain the role of energy storage in India’s energy transition. Discuss the types of
energy storage technologies that can support renewable energy integration and
provide a sustainable energy mix.
4. Analyze India’s current and future energy demand and supply situation. Discuss
how energy efficiency measures and renewable energy adoption can help meet the
growing energy demand in India.
5. Discuss the challenges faced by India in achieving energy security. How can the
country’s energy security be improved by enhancing the renewable energy capacity
and reducing reliance on fossil fuels?
6. Examine the environmental impacts of conventional and renewable energy sources
in India. How do they affect air quality, water resources, and land use? Discuss the
potential of renewable energy in reducing India’s carbon footprint.
7. Discuss India’s energy access issues, particularly in rural areas. What initiatives are
being taken to improve energy access, and how can decentralized renewable energy
solutions play a role in rural electrification?
8. Discuss the role of the transportation sector in India’s energy consumption. What
are the emerging trends in electric vehicles (EVs) and how can EVs help reduce
energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions?
9. Analyze the per capita energy consumption in India and compare it with the global
average. What are the reasons for the low per capita consumption, and what
measures can be taken to improve energy access and efficiency?
10. Discuss the future energy plans of India, focusing on the country’s goals for
renewable energy and carbon emissions reduction. How will these plans contribute
to a more sustainable and energy-secure future for the country?

Part-C: 15 Mark Questions

1. Provide a detailed analysis of the current and future energy scenario in India.
Discuss the energy consumption patterns in different sectors (domestic, industrial,
agriculture, transportation, and commercial) and the country’s goals to diversify its
energy sources.
 MEENAKSHI RAMASWAMY ENGINEERING COLLEGE
(Approved by AICTE, New Delhi, Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai-25)
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS
ENGINNERING
2. Evaluate India’s renewable energy status and its potential to become a leader in
renewable energy. Discuss solar, wind, biomass, and hydro energy sources in detail,
along with their contribution to the national grid and future expansion.
3. Discuss India’s energy security strategy in the context of global energy challenges.
Evaluate the role of renewable energy, energy storage, and energy efficiency
measures in enhancing India’s energy security.
4. Examine the environmental aspects of India’s energy generation. Compare the
environmental impacts of conventional energy (coal, oil, natural gas) versus
renewable energy sources (solar, wind, hydro, biomass).
5. Assess the global energy scenario and how it influences India’s energy policies.
Discuss the international trends in renewable energy and how India is aligning itself
with global energy goals, such as the Paris Agreement on climate change.
6. Discuss India’s plans for increasing renewable energy capacity. Provide a detailed
analysis of the country’s targets for solar and wind energy, along with government
initiatives, incentives, and policies supporting renewable energy development.
7. Provide an in-depth analysis of the role of hydrogen energy in India’s energy future.
Discuss the potential of hydrogen as a clean energy source and its applications in
sectors like transportation, industry, and power generation.
8. Examine the energy consumption patterns in India’s transportation sector. Discuss
the challenges in transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs), including infrastructure,
cost, and technological issues. How can India’s EV market be developed to reduce
energy dependence on fossil fuels?
9. Analyze the future of India’s nuclear energy industry. Discuss the current nuclear
power generation capacity, future plans, and the role of nuclear energy in reducing
carbon emissions and meeting the country’s growing electricity demand.
10. Discuss the energy policy measures that India should adopt to ensure sustainable
growth in the coming decades. Provide recommendations for improving energy
efficiency, expanding renewable energy infrastructure, and promoting a green
economy.
 MEENAKSHI RAMASWAMY ENGINEERING COLLEGE
(Approved by AICTE, New Delhi, Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai-25)
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS
ENGINNERING
UNIT – II: SOLAR ENERGY

PART A

2 MARKS QUESTIONS AND ANSWER

Part-A: 2 Marks Questions with Answers

1. What is solar radiation?

o Solar radiation refers to the energy emitted by the Sun in the form of
electromagnetic waves, which includes visible light, ultraviolet (UV) rays, and
infrared radiation.
2. What are the units used to measure solar radiation?
o Solar radiation is measured in watts per square meter (W/m²).
3. How is solar radiation measured?
o Solar radiation is measured using instruments like pyranometers, which quantify
the intensity of solar radiation incident on a surface.
4. What is the solar spectrum?
o The solar spectrum refers to the range of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the
Sun, including ultraviolet, visible light, and infrared radiation.
5. What are the different types of solar thermal collectors?
o There are two main types of solar thermal collectors: flat plate collectors and
concentrating collectors.
6. How does a flat plate collector work?
o A flat plate collector absorbs solar radiation through a flat surface and converts it
into heat, typically used for heating water in residential and commercial
applications.
7. What is a concentrating solar collector?
o A concentrating solar collector uses mirrors or lenses to focus solar radiation onto
a small area, enhancing the heat absorption for higher temperature applications.
8. What are the applications of solar thermal energy?
o Solar thermal energy is used for heating water, space heating, industrial processes,
and solar thermal power plants for electricity generation.
9. What is solar thermal energy storage?
o Solar thermal energy storage involves storing heat energy collected by solar
thermal systems for later use, typically using materials like molten salts or water.
10. What is the basic principle of solar photovoltaic (PV) conversion?
o Solar photovoltaic conversion is the process by which sunlight is directly
converted into electricity using semiconductor materials, typically silicon-based
solar cells.
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(Approved by AICTE, New Delhi, Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai-25)
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS
ENGINNERING
11. What are solar cells?
o Solar cells are semiconductor devices that convert sunlight into electrical energy
through the photovoltaic effect, forming the building blocks of solar PV systems.
12. What is the efficiency of a typical solar cell?
o The efficiency of a typical solar cell ranges from 15% to 20%, depending on the
technology and material used.
13. What is the basic working principle of a solar photovoltaic system?
o A solar PV system works by converting sunlight into electricity using solar panels
made of photovoltaic cells, which generate direct current (DC) that can be used or
stored.
14. What are the applications of solar PV systems?
o Solar PV systems are used for residential and commercial power generation,
remote area electrification, solar-powered appliances, and grid-connected
electricity systems.
15. What are the advantages of solar thermal systems?
o Solar thermal systems are simple, reliable, and cost-effective for heating
applications, with no fuel costs and minimal maintenance.
16. What is the role of solar radiation in solar thermal applications?
o Solar radiation provides the energy required for solar thermal collectors to convert
sunlight into thermal energy, which is then used for heating purposes.
17. What are the factors affecting the efficiency of solar PV systems?
o Factors include the angle of incidence of sunlight, temperature, shading,
orientation, and the efficiency of the solar panels.
18. What are the different types of solar PV systems?
o The types of solar PV systems include stand-alone systems, grid-connected
systems, and hybrid systems combining solar with other energy sources.
19. What is the significance of a solar power plant?
o A solar power plant is a large-scale solar PV system that generates electricity for
the grid, contributing to renewable energy production and reducing reliance on
fossil fuels.
20. What is the importance of solar energy in the global energy mix?
o Solar energy is a key renewable resource that reduces dependency on
conventional fossil fuels, lowers greenhouse gas emissions, and promotes
sustainable energy solutions.

Part-B: 13 Mark Questions

1. Explain the solar radiation and the different methods used to measure solar
radiation and sunshine. Discuss the factors affecting solar radiation.
2. Describe the working principle, construction, and applications of flat plate solar
thermal collectors. How do they compare with concentrating collectors?
 MEENAKSHI RAMASWAMY ENGINEERING COLLEGE
(Approved by AICTE, New Delhi, Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai-25)
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS
ENGINNERING
3. Discuss the different types of solar thermal applications, including water heating,
space heating, and industrial processes. Explain the role of solar thermal energy in
sustainable development.
4. Explain the different methods of solar thermal energy storage. How do they help in
maintaining a continuous supply of thermal energy?
5. Describe the fundamentals of solar photovoltaic conversion. Discuss the working
principle of solar cells and the factors affecting their efficiency.
6. Explain the different types of solar PV systems. Discuss the advantages and
limitations of stand-alone, grid-connected, and hybrid solar PV systems.
7. Discuss the applications of solar photovoltaic systems in rural electrification,
residential, and commercial power generation. What are the benefits and challenges
of implementing solar PV systems in these sectors?
8. Explain the construction and working principle of concentrating solar collectors.
Discuss the types of concentrating collectors and their applications in solar thermal
power generation.
9. Discuss the environmental benefits of solar energy. How does solar power contribute
to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change?
10. Analyze the future of solar energy in India and the world. Discuss the current and
projected growth of solar energy capacity, the role of government policies, and the
challenges facing solar energy adoption.

Part-C: 15 Mark Questions

1. Discuss the different types of solar thermal collectors in detail. Compare the
performance, efficiency, and applications of flat plate and concentrating solar
collectors.
2. Explain the fundamental principles of solar photovoltaic conversion. Describe the
construction, working, and types of solar cells used in solar PV systems. Analyze the
factors affecting the efficiency of solar cells.
3. Provide a comprehensive overview of solar PV systems, including stand-alone, grid-
connected, and hybrid systems. Discuss their design, applications, advantages, and
limitations.
4. Discuss the design and working of solar thermal energy storage systems. What are
the different techniques used to store thermal energy, and how do they ensure the
continuous supply of energy?
5. Explain the operation of a solar thermal power plant. Discuss the role of solar
collectors, heat transfer fluids, and thermal storage in generating electricity through
solar thermal technology.
6. Discuss the solar spectrum in detail. Explain how the solar spectrum impacts the
performance of solar collectors and photovoltaic systems.
7. Analyze the current status of solar energy in India and globally. Discuss the
potential of solar energy to meet future energy demands and its role in sustainable
energy development.
 MEENAKSHI RAMASWAMY ENGINEERING COLLEGE
(Approved by AICTE, New Delhi, Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai-25)
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS
ENGINNERING
8. Discuss the environmental impact of solar PV systems. How do solar PV systems
contribute to reducing carbon emissions, and what are the potential environmental
concerns?
9. Explain the concept of solar radiation and its significance in designing solar thermal
and solar photovoltaic systems. Discuss the methods used to measure solar radiation
and their applications in system design.
10. Evaluate the role of solar energy in meeting the energy demands of rural and
remote areas. Discuss the applications of solar PV systems for rural electrification
and the challenges faced in these areas.

UNIT – III: WIND ENERGY

PART A

Part-A: 2 Marks Questions with Answers

1. What is the Betz limit?

o The Betz limit is the theoretical maximum efficiency that a wind turbine can
achieve when converting wind energy into mechanical energy. It is approximately
59.3%, meaning no wind turbine can capture more than 59.3% of the kinetic
energy in the wind.
2. What is the importance of wind data in energy estimation?
o Wind data is essential for assessing the energy potential of a specific location, as
it helps estimate the available wind resource and predict the energy output of
wind turbines.
3. What factors are considered for site selection for wind farms?
o Key factors include wind speed, wind direction, terrain, accessibility,
environmental impact, proximity to the grid, and the local regulations and
infrastructure.
4. What are the characteristics of wind energy?
o Wind energy characteristics include variability, intermittency, seasonality, and its
dependence on local geographical and meteorological conditions.
5. What is wind resource assessment?
o Wind resource assessment involves evaluating wind data to estimate the energy
potential of a location, which is critical for selecting sites for wind farm
installation.
6. What is a horizontal-axis wind turbine (HAWT)?
o A horizontal-axis wind turbine (HAWT) has its axis of rotation aligned with the
wind direction. It is the most common type of wind turbine, with blades mounted
horizontally.
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(Approved by AICTE, New Delhi, Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai-25)
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS
ENGINNERING
7. What are the main components of a horizontal-axis wind turbine?
o The main components include the rotor blades, hub, nacelle (housing for the
generator and other components), tower, and yaw mechanism for adjusting the
turbine’s orientation.
8. What is a vertical-axis wind turbine (VAWT)?
o A vertical-axis wind turbine (VAWT) has its axis of rotation perpendicular to the
ground. These turbines are typically less sensitive to wind direction and are used
in applications with turbulent wind.
9. How does a wind turbine generator work?
o A wind turbine generator converts the mechanical energy from the wind-driven
rotor into electrical energy, typically using a synchronous or asynchronous
generator connected to the grid.
10. What are hybrid systems in wind energy?
o Hybrid systems combine wind energy with other renewable energy sources, such
as solar or diesel generators, to ensure a more stable and reliable power supply.
11. What are the environmental issues associated with wind energy?
o Environmental issues include potential impacts on wildlife (e.g., birds and bats),
noise, visual impact on the landscape, and land use changes, though these are
relatively minimal compared to fossil fuel power generation.
12. What are the applications of wind energy?
o Wind energy can be used for electricity generation in large wind farms, powering
remote areas through small wind turbines, and in hybrid systems combined with
other renewable sources.
13. What is the function of the yaw mechanism in wind turbines?
o The yaw mechanism ensures that the wind turbine blades are always aligned with
the wind direction to maximize energy capture.
14. What is the role of wind turbine generators?
o Wind turbine generators convert the mechanical energy from the wind turbine's
rotating blades into electrical energy.
15. Explain the term ‘wind resource assessment.’
o Wind resource assessment involves the process of evaluating wind speed and
direction data over a period to determine the potential energy that can be
generated from the wind at a specific site.
16. What is a wind turbine’s cut-in speed?
o The cut-in speed is the minimum wind speed at which a wind turbine starts to
generate electricity, typically around 3-4 meters per second.
17. What are the advantages of horizontal-axis wind turbines over vertical-axis wind
turbines?
o Horizontal-axis wind turbines are more efficient, have higher power outputs, and
are better suited for large-scale energy generation than vertical-axis wind turbines.
18. What is the function of the rotor blades in a wind turbine?
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(Approved by AICTE, New Delhi, Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai-25)
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS
ENGINNERING
o The rotor blades capture the kinetic energy from the wind and convert it into
mechanical energy that drives the generator.
19. What are the main challenges in wind energy deployment?
o Key challenges include variability in wind speed, high initial capital costs, energy
storage, and the environmental impact of large wind farms on local ecosystems.
20. What is the significance of wind speed in energy estimation?
o Wind speed directly affects the amount of energy a wind turbine can generate,
with higher wind speeds resulting in higher energy output. Accurate wind speed
data is crucial for effective energy estimation.

Part-B: 13 Mark Questions

1. Discuss the Betz limit in detail. How does it affect the design and efficiency of wind
turbines?
2. Explain the factors that influence the site selection for wind farms. Discuss how
wind resource assessment is conducted to estimate the energy potential of a site.
3. Compare horizontal-axis wind turbines (HAWT) and vertical-axis wind turbines
(VAWT). Discuss their construction, working principle, and applications.
4. Describe the components of a horizontal-axis wind turbine. Explain how each
component contributes to the overall functioning of the wind turbine.
5. Explain the operation of a wind turbine generator. Discuss how mechanical energy
from the turbine is converted into electrical energy.
6. Discuss the role of hybrid systems in wind energy applications. Explain the benefits
and limitations of combining wind energy with other renewable sources like solar,
biomass, or diesel.
7. Explain the environmental issues associated with wind energy generation. Discuss
how wind farms impact wildlife, land use, and the surrounding environment.
8. Discuss the various applications of wind energy in residential, commercial, and
industrial sectors. Explain the advantages of using wind energy in off-grid locations.
9. Explain the working principle and performance characteristics of wind turbines.
How do factors like wind speed, blade design, and generator type affect the
performance of a wind turbine?
10. Discuss the challenges faced in wind energy generation. Analyze the economic,
technical, and environmental barriers to the widespread adoption of wind power.

Part-C: 15 Mark Questions

1. Explain the working principle of a horizontal-axis wind turbine (HAWT). Discuss

its design, components, and performance. Compare it with vertical-axis wind
turbines (VAWT) in terms of efficiency, application, and energy generation.
 MEENAKSHI RAMASWAMY ENGINEERING COLLEGE
(Approved by AICTE, New Delhi, Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai-25)
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS
ENGINNERING
2. Discuss in detail the process of wind resource assessment. Explain how wind data is
collected and analyzed for energy estimation. Include methods for measuring wind
speed, direction, and variability over time.
3. Explain the concept of Betz limit and its implications on the design and efficiency of
wind turbines. How can engineers optimize wind turbine performance while
adhering to this limit?
4. Describe the various types of wind turbine generators. Explain their working
principles, and discuss how generator selection impacts the overall performance and
energy output of wind farms.
5. Discuss the environmental impact of wind energy. How do wind farms affect local
ecosystems, bird populations, and the surrounding environment? What measures
can be taken to mitigate these impacts?
6. Explain how wind energy can be integrated into hybrid energy systems. Discuss
different combinations of wind power with solar, biomass, and fuel cells, and their
performance in providing reliable power.
7. Explain the concept of wind energy storage systems. Discuss the types of energy
storage technologies that can be used to store excess energy generated from wind
turbines for later use.
8. Analyze the future of wind energy in India and globally. Discuss the current trends,
government policies, and technological advancements that are expected to shape the
wind energy industry in the coming years.
9. Describe the components of a wind farm. Discuss how the layout of the farm,
turbine placement, and infrastructure affect the efficiency and energy output of the
system.
10. Evaluate the challenges and opportunities in scaling up wind energy capacity.
Discuss the economic, technical, and environmental challenges of increasing wind
energy production and its role in achieving sustainable energy goals.

UNIT – IV

BIO-ENERGY

Part-A: 2 Marks Questions with Answers

1. What is biomass?
o Biomass refers to organic material derived from plants and animals that can be
used as a source of energy.
2. What are the main types of biomass conversion technologies?
o The main types of biomass conversion technologies are thermochemical
conversion, biochemical conversion, and mechanical conversion.
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ENGINNERING
3. What is direct combustion in biomass energy production?
o Direct combustion involves burning biomass to produce heat, which can then be
used to generate electricity or for heating applications.
4. What is thermochemical conversion of biomass?
o Thermochemical conversion involves heating biomass in the presence of oxygen
or steam to produce biofuels, such as syngas, bio-oil, and charcoal.
5. Explain biochemical conversion of biomass.
o Biochemical conversion refers to the use of microorganisms to break down
biomass into simpler compounds, such as biogas or ethanol.
6. What is mechanical conversion in biomass energy production?
o Mechanical conversion involves processes like compression and grinding to
convert biomass into forms such as pellets, which can be used as fuel.
7. What is a biomass gasifier?
o A biomass gasifier is a device that converts solid biomass into combustible gases
like carbon monoxide, methane, and hydrogen through a controlled process of
partial combustion.
8. What are the types of biomass gasifiers?
o The main types of biomass gasifiers are updraft, downdraft, fluidized bed, and
cross-draft gasifiers.
9. What is cogeneration?
o Cogeneration is the simultaneous production of electricity and useful heat from
the same energy source, improving overall efficiency.
10. What is carbonization in biomass conversion?
o Carbonization is the process of heating biomass in the absence of oxygen to
produce charcoal, which can be used as a fuel.
11. What is pyrolysis?
o Pyrolysis is the thermal decomposition of organic material in the absence of
oxygen, leading to the production of bio-oil, syngas, and charcoal.
12. Explain the function of a biogas plant.
o A biogas plant uses anaerobic bacteria to decompose organic material, such as
animal manure or food waste, to produce biogas, which can be used as a fuel.
13. What is a biogas digester?
o A biogas digester is a sealed container where organic waste is broken down by
microorganisms to produce methane-rich biogas.
14. How is biodiesel produced?
o Biodiesel is produced by transesterifying vegetable oils or animal fats with
alcohol (usually methanol) in the presence of a catalyst.
15. What is the process of ethanol production from biomass?
o Ethanol is produced through the fermentation of carbohydrates present in biomass
by microorganisms like yeast.
16. What are the applications of biomass energy?
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o Biomass energy can be used for electricity generation, heating, transportation (as
biofuels like biodiesel and ethanol), and in various industrial processes.
17. What is the difference between biodiesel and ethanol?
o Biodiesel is a methyl or ethyl ester derived from vegetable oils or animal fats,
while ethanol is an alcohol typically made from fermented sugars.
18. How does a biomass gasifier work?
o A biomass gasifier converts solid biomass into gas by partially combusting it with
a controlled supply of air or steam at high temperatures.
19. What is the main advantage of using biogas as an energy source?
o Biogas is a renewable energy source that helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions
and provides a way to utilize organic waste.
20. What are the benefits of biodiesel over conventional diesel?
o Biodiesel is biodegradable, non-toxic, and emits lower levels of particulate matter
and carbon monoxide than conventional diesel.

Part-B: 13 Mark Questions

1. Explain the different types of biomass conversion processes in detail. Discuss the
advantages and limitations of each.
2. Describe the working principle of a biomass gasifier. Explain the different types of
biomass gasifiers and their applications.
3. Discuss the concept of cogeneration in biomass power plants. How does it improve
energy efficiency and reduce waste?
4. Explain the process of carbonization in biomass conversion. Discuss its importance
and applications.
5. Describe the process of pyrolysis. How is it different from other biomass conversion
methods like combustion and gasification?
6. Explain the operation of a biogas plant. Discuss the types of digesters used in biogas
production and their role in energy generation.
7. Discuss the production process of biodiesel. Explain the advantages and challenges
associated with its production and use as an alternative fuel.
8. Explain the process of ethanol production from biomass. Discuss the advantages of
ethanol as a renewable fuel and its applications.
9. Discuss the environmental benefits and challenges of using biomass for energy
production. How can biomass systems contribute to reducing greenhouse gas
emissions?
10. Analyze the performance and economic feasibility of hybrid energy systems that
combine biomass with other renewable energy sources. Provide case studies where
such systems have been successfully implemented.

Part-C: 15 Mark Questions

 MEENAKSHI RAMASWAMY ENGINEERING COLLEGE
(Approved by AICTE, New Delhi, Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai-25)
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS
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1. Discuss the different methods of converting biomass into energy, including direct
combustion, thermochemical conversion, biochemical conversion, and mechanical
conversion. Provide detailed examples of their applications.
2. Explain the operation and types of biomass gasifiers. Discuss the technical
challenges in the design and optimization of biomass gasifiers. What are the
advantages and limitations of using biomass gasification for power generation?
3. Explain in detail the process of biogas production. Discuss the types of biogas
digesters and their importance in the anaerobic digestion process. How does biogas
contribute to renewable energy systems and waste management?
4. Describe the complete process of biodiesel production from feedstock to final
product. Discuss the various feedstocks used in biodiesel production and the
challenges faced in scaling up biodiesel production for commercial use.
5. Discuss the various thermochemical processes used for biomass conversion,
including carbonization, pyrolysis, and gasification. Compare their efficiency,
products, and applications in power generation and biofuel production.
6. Analyze the role of biomass as a renewable energy source. Discuss its potential and
limitations in terms of resource availability, energy output, environmental impact,
and cost-effectiveness.
7. Describe in detail the biochemical conversion process of biomass into biofuels. How
do fermentation and anaerobic digestion work? Discuss the challenges and future
prospects of biochemical conversion in the energy sector.
8. Explain the environmental impacts of biomass energy production. Discuss how
biomass can be used sustainably while minimizing deforestation, land-use change,
and pollution.
9. Discuss the role of hybrid energy systems in promoting renewable energy. Provide
case studies of hybrid systems combining biomass with solar, wind, or hydropower
and analyze their economic and environmental benefits.
10. Provide a detailed analysis of the applications of biomass energy in various sectors
such as industry, agriculture, transportation, and residential energy use. Discuss the
practical challenges and opportunities in scaling up biomass energy applications.

UNIT – V

OCEAN AND GEOTHERMAL ENERGY

Part-A: 2 Marks Questions with Answers

1. What is small hydro energy?

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o Small hydro energy refers to the generation of electricity from small-scale
hydroelectric power plants, typically producing less than 25 MW of power.
2. What is tidal energy?
o Tidal energy is the energy derived from the movement of tides. It can be
harnessed using turbines or other methods to generate electricity.
3. What is wave energy?
o Wave energy is the energy generated from the motion of surface water waves. It
is harnessed using devices like buoys and floating platforms to generate
electricity.
4. What is the difference between open and closed OTEC cycles?
o Open OTEC uses seawater directly to drive a turbine and generate power, while
closed OTEC uses a working fluid that is vaporized by warm seawater and then
condensed by cold seawater to generate power.
5. What are the limitations of tidal energy?
o The main limitations of tidal energy are its dependence on tidal cycles, which can
be unpredictable, and its environmental impact on marine ecosystems.
6. What is geothermal energy?
o Geothermal energy is the heat derived from the Earth's interior, used for heating
and generating electricity.
7. What are the types of geothermal power plants?
o The types of geothermal power plants are dry steam plants, flash steam plants,
and binary cycle plants.
8. What are the applications of geothermal energy?
o Geothermal energy is used for electricity generation, direct heating (e.g., in
greenhouses or spas), and in industrial processes that require heat.
9. How does small hydro differ from large hydroelectric plants?
o Small hydro plants generate less power (less than 25 MW) and are less disruptive
to the environment compared to large hydro plants, which may require large dams
and reservoirs.
10. What is the environmental impact of tidal energy?
o Tidal energy may affect marine life and ecosystems, particularly during
construction, and can alter tidal flow patterns, which may impact sedimentation
and navigation.
11. What are the advantages of wave energy?
o Wave energy is a renewable resource with a predictable source of energy, unlike
wind or solar energy, and can generate power continuously as long as waves exist.
12. What is the principle behind OTEC (Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion)?
o OTEC works by utilizing the temperature difference between warm surface water
and cold deep water to generate electricity through a heat engine.
13. What are the environmental impacts of geothermal energy?
o Geothermal energy can release trace gases, cause land subsidence, and affect local
ecosystems if not properly managed.
 MEENAKSHI RAMASWAMY ENGINEERING COLLEGE
(Approved by AICTE, New Delhi, Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai-25)
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS
ENGINNERING
14. What is a dry steam geothermal plant?
o A dry steam geothermal plant extracts steam directly from the Earth’s geothermal
reservoirs to drive turbines and generate electricity.
15. What is a flash steam geothermal plant?
o A flash steam plant uses high-pressure geothermal water, which is released to
lower pressure, causing it to “flash” into steam to drive turbines.
16. What is a binary cycle geothermal plant?
o A binary cycle geothermal plant uses a heat exchanger to transfer heat from
geothermal hot water to a secondary fluid, which vaporizes and drives a turbine.
17. What are the major challenges in harnessing tidal energy?
o Major challenges include the high cost of infrastructure, potential environmental
impacts, and the variability of tidal patterns.
18. What is the primary source of wave energy?
o The primary source of wave energy is the wind, which transfers its energy to the
water surface, creating waves that can be harnessed for power generation.
19. What are the potential locations for geothermal power plants?
o Geothermal power plants are typically located in regions with significant tectonic
activity, such as areas around volcanic regions or along plate boundaries.
20. How does geothermal energy compare to other renewable energy sources?
o Geothermal energy is reliable, operates 24/7, and has a small footprint but is
geographically limited compared to other renewable energy sources like wind and
solar.

Part-B: 13 Mark Questions

1. Explain the principle of operation of tidal energy. Discuss the types of tidal energy
systems and their limitations.
2. Describe the working of an OTEC system. Compare the open and closed cycles of
OTEC, and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each.
3. Explain the principle and technology of wave energy generation. Discuss the types of
wave energy converters and the environmental impacts associated with wave
energy.
4. Discuss the working and types of geothermal power plants. Explain the advantages
and challenges of utilizing geothermal energy for electricity generation.
5. Discuss the advantages and limitations of small hydro systems in comparison to
large-scale hydroelectric plants. How do they contribute to renewable energy
generation?
6. Analyze the environmental impact of harnessing tidal and wave energy. Discuss
potential mitigation strategies to reduce these impacts.
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(Approved by AICTE, New Delhi, Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai-25)
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS
ENGINNERING
7. Discuss the applications of geothermal energy in various sectors. Explain the
potential for geothermal energy to contribute to a sustainable energy future.
8. Explain the concept of hybrid energy systems involving geothermal, wave, and wind
energy. Discuss the feasibility and benefits of such systems.
9. Describe the potential of ocean energy (OTEC, tidal, and wave) as a renewable
energy source. Analyze the challenges involved in the commercialization of ocean
energy.
10. Compare the environmental impacts of geothermal energy with other renewable
energy sources like wind, solar, and hydroelectric power. Discuss the trade-offs and
benefits.

Part-C: 15 Mark Questions

1. Discuss the different types of geothermal power plants, including dry steam, flash
steam, and binary cycle plants. Provide a detailed comparison of their working
principles, applications, and efficiency.
2. Explain the concept of tidal energy and how it can be harnessed. Discuss the
environmental impacts, technical challenges, and potential for scaling tidal energy
systems globally.
3. Analyze the working principle and applications of Ocean Thermal Energy
Conversion (OTEC). Compare the open and closed cycle OTEC systems in terms of
efficiency, environmental impact, and economic viability.
4. Discuss the environmental impact of wave energy. Explain the different types of
wave energy devices and their potential for large-scale electricity generation.
5. Explain how small hydro systems can contribute to a sustainable energy mix.
Discuss the technical challenges, environmental considerations, and limitations of
small hydro systems compared to large-scale hydroelectric plants.
6. Describe the applications of geothermal energy in both electricity generation and
direct heating. Discuss the technical and economic feasibility of large-scale
geothermal energy deployment.
7. Analyze the potential of hybrid systems combining geothermal energy with other
renewable sources like wind and solar. Discuss the economic, environmental, and
performance advantages of hybrid systems in comparison to standalone renewable
energy systems.
8. Compare the role of geothermal energy with other renewable sources such as wind,
solar, and hydro in meeting the future global energy demand. Discuss the
advantages, limitations, and future potential of geothermal energy.
9. Describe the working principle of wave energy converters. Discuss the challenges
and advancements in wave energy technology, along with the environmental
impacts and applications in the renewable energy market.
 MEENAKSHI RAMASWAMY ENGINEERING COLLEGE
(Approved by AICTE, New Delhi, Affiliated to Anna University, Chennai-25)
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS
ENGINNERING
10. Discuss the potential of ocean energy (tidal, wave, and OTEC) as a future source of
renewable energy. Analyze the economic, environmental, and technological
challenges that must be addressed to make ocean energy commercially viable.