Letters to the Editor: Energy security must in India

After the 'Electricity Act-2003', the coal-based thermal-power generation capacity (installed) in India increased sharply from 94 GW to 192 GW between 2011 and 2017. This increase enabled the per-capita electricity consumption by 37%. The coal-based thermal plants are now contributing to power generation in the capacity of 382 GW — accounting to more than 50% of the installed power-generation capacity among all the utilities in India. As such, coal plays a major role in India's overall power-generation capacity. Also, India's efforts to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all, i.e., achieving the seventh sustainable development goal – which, of course, would be impossible without the due support from the Coal Sector.

Mentionably, the 'variable renewable energy sources' — including the wind and also the solar energies, among others, are contributing to only 10% of the total energy (power) generation in India.

But, an increase in the power-generation capacities of such sources — without the corresponding rise in energy demand — is but leading to a reduction in the utilization of the thermal power plants. However, the power-distribution companies are paying the fixed costs — albeit by increasing the tariffs of their consumers.

At present, India is suffering from acute coal shortage crisis. Therefore, it is advisable for the Central government to implement a new energy policy ensuring an increase in energy efficiency, reduction in carbon-dioxide emissions, by gradually shifting the energy generation from the coal-based power production sector to other suitable and available options including even that of 'nuclear-power generation'. This will definitely help India to ensure energy security, lessen particulate matter and carbon dioxide emissions among other vital factors leading to a green global environment.

Bibhash Deva Nath,

Rangia.

Sane 'Diwali' Must for All

Diwali is round the corner. We are eagerly waiting for the 'Festival of Lights'.Very soon, the markets will be flooded with crackers of all shapes and sizes; and the masses will be thronging the Diwali bazaars for procuring the variegated Diwali items.

But then, the drastic climate change that we have seen this year should be an eye opener. Bursting of crackers adds to noise pollution apart from making the air impure — thereby increasing the trauma of many people especially those suffering from asthmatic issues, pets and even the elderly or the senior citizens.

Hence, it is high time that we evolve a way of conscientious lifestyle. This philosophy must be kept in mind. It will surely ensure a greener 'Mother Earth' for our progenies. We have an urgent responsibility towards our future generations — that should enjoy the oxygen-filled air sans complications. The most essential 'Green Cover' will have to be expanded; and all pollutions stopped immediately within a timeframe. All can start from their own homes and these steps will surely go a long way in conserving the very vital 'Green Cover' of our only planet.

Purabi Pathak Barua,

Guwahati.