Conventional vs Non-Conventional Sources of Energy

Conventional and Non-Conventional Sources of Energy are the two types of sources of energy. Conventional Sources of Energy refer to the traditional form of power/energy production sources and include fossil fuels such as coal, natural gas, oil, etc. However, Non-Conventional Sources of Energy refer to the newer and less commonly used sources of energy that have the potential to play a crucial role in fulfilling future needs. These include renewable energy sources like wind, solar, biomass, hydroelectric, etc.

What is Conventional Source of Energy?

The sources of energy that are in use for a long and can be stored are known as Conventional Sources of Energy. These are non-renewable sources of energy. For example, coal, natural gas, electricity, thermal power, cow dung, straw, etc. Even in the present times, many industries use coal and oil. Commercial and Non-commercial Sources of Energy are known as Conventional Sources of Energy.

What is Non-conventional Source of Energy?

The sources of energy which have only recently come into use are known as Non-conventional Sources of Energy. These sources are renewable sources of energy. For example, wind energy, solar energy, bio-gas, tidal power, and geo-thermal energy. As India is a tropical country, its potential to produce non-conventional sources of energy is almost unlimited. Although it is possible if the already available appropriate cost-effective technologies are used. However, as these sources of energy are inexhaustible, besides facing the problem of heavy cost and management, harnessing and storing them also involves a lot of problems. This is the reason why these sources are generally not used in industries.

Conventional v/s Non-Conventional Sources of Energy

Basis	Conventional Sources of Energy	Non-Conventional Sources of Energy
Meaning	The sources of energy which are in use for long and can be stored is known as Conventional Sources of Energy.	The sources of energy which have only recently come into use is known as Non-Conventional Sources of Energy.
Formation	Conventional sources of energy require a long period of time for their formation.	Non-conventional sources of energy require a short time period for their formation.
Use	Conventional sources of energy are primarily used for commercial and industrial purposes.	The main use of non-conventional sources of energy is for domestic purposes.
Renewability	These are generally non-renewable sources of energy.	These are generally renewable sources of energy.
Exhaustible	Conventional sources can be easily exhausted due to overconsumption.	Non-conventional sources of energy cannot be exhausted.
Availability	These sources are available in limited quantity in nature.	These sources are available in abundance in nature as they are renewable.
Expense	Conventional sources of energy are costly.	Non-conventional sources of energy are comparatively less expensive.
Pollution	Conventional sources of energy pollute the environment on a large scale and also lead to global warming.	Non-conventional sources of energy are environment-friendly and therefore do not cause pollution.
Existence	These resources exist for many years.	These resources are relatively new sources of energy.
Example	Coal, natural gas, electricity, thermal power, cow dung, straw, etc.	Wind energy, solar energy, bio-gas, tidal power, and geothermal energy.

Conventional and Non-Conventional Sources of Energy – FAQs

What are the benefits of Conventional Sources of Energy?

Conventional Sources of Energy provides high energy density, have well-established distribution networks and infrastructure, are reliable, and can provide constant energy supply.

What are the drawbacks of Non-Conventional Sources of Energy?

Non-Conventional Sources of Energy involves high initial setup cost for infrastructure, can be intermittent, and are dependent on weather conditions. Besides, some of the sources may also require large land areas or may have negative impact on the environment.

Which is better, Conventional or Non-Conventional Sources of Energy?

Various factors including cost, availability, environmental impact, and technological advancements plays a key role in deciding between conventional and non-conventional sources of energy. However, at present times, people are preferring non-conventional sources over conventional sources, as they are more sustainable and have the potential to mitigate climate change.

How can we contribute to the use of non-conventional sources of energy?

Following things can be done to contribute to the use of non-conventional sources of energy:

• We can install solar panels at our homes for electricity generation.
• We can invest in appliances that are energy-efficient, helping in the reduction of overall energy consumption.
• We can also contribute by supporting the initiatives and policies, promoting the adoption of renewable sources of energy at every level (local, national, and international).

What are the emerging Non-Conventional Sources of Energy?

Some of the emerging Non-Conventional Sources of Energy include, wave energy, tidal energy, hydrogen fuel cells, and Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC).