Harnessing renewable energy in India: achievements and prospects to 2001

The paper gives an account of development of major renewable energy resources in India during the past 15 years. It outlines, quantitatively, the scale and spread of five technologies to improve quality of life of rural millions, to enhance their economic activities and for protection of the environment. Roles of the harnessed renewable energy resources in mitigation of region-specific endemic power shortages and conservation of premium petroleum fuel influencing India´s delicate balance of payments are described. Conversion of wind energy into electricity is most promising. An account of future growth to year 2002 is given