The Right to Energy & The Right to Energy & The Right Energy The Right Energy

in thein theChanging ClimateChanging Climate

Dr. CM Nautiyal*Dr. CM Nautiyal*cmnautiyal@yahoo.co.uk

0941510707809415107078

* Scientist, BSIP, Lucknow* Scientist, BSIP, Lucknow

The Climate ScenarioThe Climate Scenario

• Grim, in short!Grim, in short!

• The moods of weather swing unpredictably. The moods of weather swing unpredictably. • The global temperature continues to rise. The global temperature continues to rise. • Natural calamities are heard of more often, Natural calamities are heard of more often,

be it land slides in Uttarakhand, hurricanes be it land slides in Uttarakhand, hurricanes in the USA or earthquakes in Haiti or in the USA or earthquakes in Haiti or elsewhere. elsewhere.

• Admittedly, they all are not always Admittedly, they all are not always necessarily related.necessarily related.

How We Know Climate Is How We Know Climate Is ChangingChanging

• Increase in temperatureIncrease in temperature• Increase in evaporation, more energy to Increase in evaporation, more energy to

atmosphere, leading to atmospheric atmosphere, leading to atmospheric disturbances like hurricanedisturbances like hurricane

• More extreme events, more and unexpected More extreme events, more and unexpected storms, floodsstorms, floods

• Change in rain- patternsChange in rain- patterns• Tropical diseasesTropical diseases• Rise in sea- level, flooding of coastal area, Rise in sea- level, flooding of coastal area,

vanishing islandsvanishing islands• More frequent and more pronounced El Nino More frequent and more pronounced El Nino

and La Nina (sub- ocean surface warm and and La Nina (sub- ocean surface warm and cold water streams near Peru coast in S. cold water streams near Peru coast in S. America causing disturbances)America causing disturbances)

Some factsSome facts

• We are already at 385 ppm of CO2, We are already at 385 ppm of CO2, up from pre- industrial 260 ppmup from pre- industrial 260 ppm

• More than 0.6 degree Celsius More than 0.6 degree Celsius increase during the past centuryincrease during the past century

• Melting of land- based Antarctic Melting of land- based Antarctic and Greenland ice sheets’ melting and Greenland ice sheets’ melting will raise sea level by 200 feetwill raise sea level by 200 feet

Adverse Effects on CropsAdverse Effects on Crops

• Rice yield to go down by 0.71 ton/ hectare Rice yield to go down by 0.71 ton/ hectare (min. temp. 18 to 19 deg C.), 0.41 ton/ (min. temp. 18 to 19 deg C.), 0.41 ton/ hectare for 22 to 23 deg Chectare for 22 to 23 deg C

• Rice yield to go down by 0.75 ton/ hectare if Rice yield to go down by 0.75 ton/ hectare if mean temp up by 2 deg C in high yield mean temp up by 2 deg C in high yield areas, and by .06 ton/ hect in coastal areasareas, and by .06 ton/ hect in coastal areas

Effect of one metre sea Effect of one metre sea level riselevel rise

Quoted by Panigrahi (2004) attrbuting to JNU 1993

Yes, There Are ErrorsYes, There Are Errors

Some time back NASA's Goddard Institute for Some time back NASA's Goddard Institute for Space Studies corrected its data that seemed Space Studies corrected its data that seemed to show that 3 and not 9 of the ten hottest to show that 3 and not 9 of the ten hottest years in U.S. history occurred since 1995. years in U.S. history occurred since 1995.

There is no basis for claiming that Himalayan There is no basis for claiming that Himalayan glaciers will vanish in 2 or 3 decades.glaciers will vanish in 2 or 3 decades.

Thereafter many "global warming deniers" Thereafter many "global warming deniers"

have used this to reject the whole idea of have used this to reject the whole idea of global warming induced climate change.global warming induced climate change.

But we ought to take stepsBut we ought to take steps

Relationship Between Relationship Between Climate & EnergyClimate & Energy

• The evolution of the society and evolution of The evolution of the society and evolution of energy sources have been going quite parallel.energy sources have been going quite parallel.

• The anthropogenic influence on climate has The anthropogenic influence on climate has energy as an important input and hence the energy as an important input and hence the climate and energy are also closely related.climate and energy are also closely related.

• • Our interference in nature is also caused by Our interference in nature is also caused by

our influence on energy- budget of the our influence on energy- budget of the atmosphere. atmosphere.

• One can't think of mitigating the climate One can't think of mitigating the climate change without understanding and managing change without understanding and managing the energy scenario.the energy scenario.

The Meaning of Clean EnergyThe Meaning of Clean Energy

• Consumption of energy: An accepted index to Consumption of energy: An accepted index to measure the prosperity of a society.measure the prosperity of a society.

• Whenever we use fuel, be it wood, coal or oil, Whenever we use fuel, be it wood, coal or oil,

it pollutes by way of emission of gases it pollutes by way of emission of gases harmful to us, be it carbon dioxide, carbon harmful to us, be it carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, methane or others. monoxide, sulfur dioxide, methane or others.

• Nuclear fuels leave us with nuclear waste. Nuclear fuels leave us with nuclear waste. Solar batteries leave a lot of waste to dispose Solar batteries leave a lot of waste to dispose of, and most of the others still to reach a level of, and most of the others still to reach a level of comfort. of comfort.

• What’s clean energy? One has to worry about What’s clean energy? One has to worry about

pollution in any stage during 'wells to wheels'. pollution in any stage during 'wells to wheels'.

Present World Scenario of Present World Scenario of EnergyEnergy

• Petroleum : 40%Petroleum : 40%

• Coal : 26%Coal : 26%

• Natural Gas : 21%Natural Gas : 21%

• Hydroelectric: 7%Hydroelectric: 7%

• Nuclear : 6%Nuclear : 6%

• Most of the energy that we hear about has Most of the energy that we hear about has its origin in the stars, literally. its origin in the stars, literally.

• Coal and wood are results of photosynthesis Coal and wood are results of photosynthesis caused by sunlight. caused by sunlight.

• Winds blow because of differential Winds blow because of differential temperature- rise from solar heating of the temperature- rise from solar heating of the land, oceans and atmosphere. land, oceans and atmosphere.

• Solar energy is of course from the Sun, our Solar energy is of course from the Sun, our nearest star. nearest star.

• Nuclear energy is because of elements that Nuclear energy is because of elements that were synthesized in the interior of stars were synthesized in the interior of stars many billion years ago.many billion years ago.

• Hydroelectric is based on water lifting by Hydroelectric is based on water lifting by solar heating!solar heating!

• This leaves only Geothermal and Tidal!This leaves only Geothermal and Tidal!

GH Gases Over the Past 4 lac GH Gases Over the Past 4 lac yearsyears

Is Change in Climate Normal?Is Change in Climate Normal?

• It is known from geological and other It is known from geological and other records that sea level changes, carbon records that sea level changes, carbon dioxide and methane level in the dioxide and methane level in the atmosphere and even extinctions have been atmosphere and even extinctions have been more of a rule rather than exception in the more of a rule rather than exception in the history of the earth. history of the earth.

• If always so, why bother?If always so, why bother?

If Change Normal, Why Bother?If Change Normal, Why Bother?

• Because we were not there at that time, But Because we were not there at that time, But now we are here.now we are here.

• Natural Changes are beyond our control, but Natural Changes are beyond our control, but anthropogenic changes are our doing. Let's anthropogenic changes are our doing. Let's bother about what is within our controlbother about what is within our control

• Adjusting to fast paced changes is not easy. Adjusting to fast paced changes is not easy. Many varieties of birds, vegetations etc. have Many varieties of birds, vegetations etc. have vanished. Of course, even extinction was also vanished. Of course, even extinction was also not uncommon on earth during its 4.5 billion not uncommon on earth during its 4.5 billion year life history..year life history..

• The argument that warming will make the life The argument that warming will make the life in the cold areas more comfortable, has some in the cold areas more comfortable, has some merit. But a higher fraction of population lives merit. But a higher fraction of population lives close to equator.close to equator.

ChangesChanges

• Increase in temperatureIncrease in temperature

• Increase in evaporation, more energy Increase in evaporation, more energy leading to atmospheric disturbancesleading to atmospheric disturbances

• More extreme events, more and unexpected More extreme events, more and unexpected storms, floodsstorms, floods

• Change in rain- patternsChange in rain- patterns

• Tropical diseasesTropical diseases

• Rise in sea- level, flooding of coastal areaRise in sea- level, flooding of coastal area

Some damage- estimatesSome damage- estimates

• European heat wave- 2003: 35,000 deathsEuropean heat wave- 2003: 35,000 deaths

• Chinese floods- 1998 affected 24 crore peopleChinese floods- 1998 affected 24 crore people

• WHO estimated 1.5 lac deaths in 2000 due to WHO estimated 1.5 lac deaths in 2000 due to climate changeclimate change

• One can’t always estimate indirect costs due to One can’t always estimate indirect costs due to mass migrations, pressure on resources, coral mass migrations, pressure on resources, coral damages etc.damages etc.

What is the Way Out?What is the Way Out?

• Give up using Energy?Give up using Energy?

• Use less energy? Use less energy?

• Find safe and efficient sources?Find safe and efficient sources?

““It’s cheaper to use energy efficiently than It’s cheaper to use energy efficiently than

not using it!”not using it!”

Not That Nothing is Being Not That Nothing is Being DoneDone

• CoalCoal• WoodWood• Thermal powerThermal power• HydrothermalHydrothermal• Diesel Diesel • PetrolPetrol• CNGCNG• Similarly, for light from wood and oil to Similarly, for light from wood and oil to

bulb to tube to CFL & LED!bulb to tube to CFL & LED!

Conventional and Conventional Conventional and Conventional “Alternate” Sources of Energy“Alternate” Sources of Energy

ConventionalConventional

• Naturally available Naturally available material like woodmaterial like wood

• Fossil fuels like coal, oilFossil fuels like coal, oil

• Nuclear FissionNuclear Fission

•

• Now CNGNow CNG

Why Alternative SourcesWhy Alternative Sources

• Fossil fuels are limitedFossil fuels are limited

• They add to pollutionThey add to pollution

• The carbon dioxide concentration has gone The carbon dioxide concentration has gone up by ~50 % over the past 100 yearsup by ~50 % over the past 100 years

• ““We are not running our of energy, we are We are not running our of energy, we are running out of environment!”running out of environment!”

How to Choose Energy Source?How to Choose Energy Source?

• Is the source possible to tap technologically?Is the source possible to tap technologically?

• Is it feasible to use as fuel and does Is it feasible to use as fuel and does technology exist for that?technology exist for that?

• Is it freely available?Is it freely available?

• Can it be stored?Can it be stored?

• Is storing economical?Is storing economical?

• Is that safe?Is that safe?

Suitable EnergySuitable Energy• The race is for getting more and more energy from less The race is for getting more and more energy from less

and less material and with less and less pollution. and less material and with less and less pollution. Wood, coal, diesel, oil, natural gases (LPG and CNG) Wood, coal, diesel, oil, natural gases (LPG and CNG) show that. show that.

• But if one carbon and 2 oxygen atoms yield 4 electron But if one carbon and 2 oxygen atoms yield 4 electron volt energy, on reacting, one uranium atom's fission volt energy, on reacting, one uranium atom's fission yields 200 MeV which is higher by a factor of crores! yields 200 MeV which is higher by a factor of crores!

• Solar energy holds promise but not eficient yet. Sun Solar energy holds promise but not eficient yet. Sun sends about 1400 Joules of energy per square sends about 1400 Joules of energy per square centimeter per second (measured on the top of the centimeter per second (measured on the top of the earth's atmosphere). A little averaging for day and night earth's atmosphere). A little averaging for day and night consideration and accounting for the absorption by the consideration and accounting for the absorption by the atmosphere etc. shows that earth receives over 15 terra atmosphere etc. shows that earth receives over 15 terra watts of energy per year. We produce only one- fourth watts of energy per year. We produce only one- fourth of this energy at present!of this energy at present!

• Fusion will be far more convenient due to much higher Fusion will be far more convenient due to much higher availability of deuterium (hydrogen atom of atomic availability of deuterium (hydrogen atom of atomic weight 2), but seems a distant dream as yet.weight 2), but seems a distant dream as yet.

What are the Non- What are the Non- Conventional Alternate Conventional Alternate Sources of energy?Sources of energy? Wind Energy is Wind Energy is

promising. At promising. At present Germany, present Germany, USA, Denmark lead USA, Denmark lead and India is and India is progressing well. progressing well. India has potential India has potential of 45,000 MW using of 45,000 MW using SW monsoon from SW monsoon from April, July winds April, July winds (20- 30 kms/ hr and (20- 30 kms/ hr and then NE monsoon then NE monsoon from September.from September.

CNG As FuelCNG As Fuel It’s compressed and not liquefied, hence less dense. As a It’s compressed and not liquefied, hence less dense. As a

clean fuel, Compressed Natural Gas fits the bill quite well :clean fuel, Compressed Natural Gas fits the bill quite well :

• 1. It is colour less, odour less, non- toxic, non- carcinogenic, 1. It is colour less, odour less, non- toxic, non- carcinogenic, lighter- than- air gas (the smell is because of added ethyl lighter- than- air gas (the smell is because of added ethyl mercaptan).mercaptan).

• 2. Economical (half of petrol) and high octane (120 or more)2. Economical (half of petrol) and high octane (120 or more)

• 3. Low risk as it escapes up if leak occurs. Burns only at 5- 3. Low risk as it escapes up if leak occurs. Burns only at 5- 15% conc. Auto ignition at 842 deg C (for petrol: 572, for 15% conc. Auto ignition at 842 deg C (for petrol: 572, for diesel: 446 deg C)diesel: 446 deg C)

• 4. Processing easier as no need for cooling or cryo tanks to 4. Processing easier as no need for cooling or cryo tanks to store. It’s stored in thick steel tanks at 200 Kg per sq cm.store. It’s stored in thick steel tanks at 200 Kg per sq cm.

• 5. It’s about 90% methane, with some ethane, CO2 and a 5. It’s about 90% methane, with some ethane, CO2 and a little propane and some others. Causes much less pollution as little propane and some others. Causes much less pollution as bye- product is water and carbon dioxide in 2:1 mol. Ratio.bye- product is water and carbon dioxide in 2:1 mol. Ratio.

Being Developed and Being Being Developed and Being Explored:Explored:

• Hydrogen/ Fuel CellsHydrogen/ Fuel Cells

• Coal- bed Methane and gas Hydrates. Coal- bed Methane and gas Hydrates. Reservoirs of gas hydrates have been found Reservoirs of gas hydrates have been found off the West coast of India nearoff the West coast of India near

• Will they be efficient and environment- Will they be efficient and environment- friendly?friendly?

Vehicular EmissionVehicular Emission

Total Energy EfficiencyTotal Energy Efficiency

Total energy efficiency is a product of efficiency of production and efficiency of energy yield when used. Hydrogen is very efficient in

use but producing it demands lot of energy yet its overall efficiency is highest

Gasoline IC Diesel IC

Comp. hydro. IC

F u e l C e l l s

Diesel

Hybrid Elec.

Gaso. CH4 C2H5OH Hyd. Hyd.

Gaso.

Hyb. Elec.

CNG IC

• Hydrogen and Hydrogen and

• Hydrogen (or methanol) fuel cellsHydrogen (or methanol) fuel cells

Hydrogen has the highest energy content per unit of weight of any known fuel.

Hydrogen can be produced from the abundant water

When burned in an engine, hydrogen produces effectively zero emissions

When powering a fuel cell, its only by-product is pure water.

Why Hydrogen?

Steps in Using Hydrogen as Steps in Using Hydrogen as FuelFuel1.Production

2.Delivery

3.Storage

4.Conversion into energy

Storage of hydrogen is being attempted developing alloys of lanthanum nickel and iron (LaNi5, LaNi0.8Fe0.2, as well as hydrides of magnesium, sodium and aluminum (MgH2, NaAlH4, Mg(AlH4)2.

Graphite fibers made from carbon nano tubes and graphite have shown over 10 percent (weight wise)efficiency for storage of hydrogen. However, the road is still long and cost exorbitant.

Hydrogen ProductionHydrogen Production

The simplest is electrolysis. The other is braking down methanol and water vapour as both contain hydrogen.

Hydrogen CarsHydrogen Cars

• BMW has built 100 cars to run on BMW has built 100 cars to run on HydrogenHydrogen

• So far tested for about 1 million kmsSo far tested for about 1 million kms• An 8 Kgs super insulated SS tankAn 8 Kgs super insulated SS tank• The storage is 15% of car weightThe storage is 15% of car weight• Fuelling takes about 8 minutesFuelling takes about 8 minutes• Left alone, half filled hydrogen tank will Left alone, half filled hydrogen tank will

escape in 9 days. escape in 9 days. • Runs 200 kms on hydrogen and 500 on Runs 200 kms on hydrogen and 500 on

petrol with highest speed of 230 kms/ hpetrol with highest speed of 230 kms/ h• A biodiesel (body fat) based Ecoboat has A biodiesel (body fat) based Ecoboat has

been testedbeen tested

What is A Fuel Cell?What is A Fuel Cell?

• A fuel cell is an A fuel cell is an electrochemical electrochemical energy conversion energy conversion device. A fuel cell device. A fuel cell converts the converts the chemicals hydrogen chemicals hydrogen and oxygen into and oxygen into water, and in the water, and in the process it produces process it produces electricity. Most fuel electricity. Most fuel cells in use today use cells in use today use hydrogen and oxygen hydrogen and oxygen as the chemicals.as the chemicals.

How A Battery differs From a Fuel How A Battery differs From a Fuel CellCell

• A battery has all of A battery has all of its chemicals stored its chemicals stored inside, and it inside, and it converts those converts those chemicals into chemicals into electricity too. This electricity too. This means that a means that a battery eventually battery eventually "goes dead" and you "goes dead" and you either throw it away either throw it away or recharge it.or recharge it.

With a fuel cell, With a fuel cell, chemicals constantly chemicals constantly flow into the cell so flow into the cell so it never goes dead. it never goes dead. As long as chemicals As long as chemicals flow into the cell, flow into the cell, the electricity flows the electricity flows out of the cell.out of the cell.

Fuel cells are usually classified by the type of electrolyte Fuel cells are usually classified by the type of electrolyte they use.they use.

Proton Exchange membrane Fuel Proton Exchange membrane Fuel CellCell

• The The proton exchange membrane proton exchange membrane fuel cellfuel cell (PEMFC) is one of the most (PEMFC) is one of the most promising technologies. This is the promising technologies. This is the type of fuel cell that will end up type of fuel cell that will end up powering cars, buses and maybe powering cars, buses and maybe even your house. The PEMFC uses even your house. The PEMFC uses one of the simplest reactions of any one of the simplest reactions of any fuel cell. fuel cell.

The rough and porous (for high surface area) catalyst is platinum powder very thinly coated onto carbon paper or cloth

Other types of Fuel CellsOther types of Fuel Cells• Alkaline fuel cellAlkaline fuel cell (AFC): One of the oldest (AFC): One of the oldest

designs. Has been used in the U.S. space designs. Has been used in the U.S. space program since the 1960s. very susceptible to program since the 1960s. very susceptible to contamination, so it requires pure hydrogen contamination, so it requires pure hydrogen and oxygen. Also very expensive, so and oxygen. Also very expensive, so unlikely unlikely to be commercializedto be commercialized. .

• Phosphoric-acid fuel cellPhosphoric-acid fuel cell (PAFC): Has potential (PAFC): Has potential for use in small stationary power-generation for use in small stationary power-generation systems. It operates at a higher temperature systems. It operates at a higher temperature than PEM fuel cells, so it has a longer warm-up than PEM fuel cells, so it has a longer warm-up time. This makes it unsuitable for use in cars. time. This makes it unsuitable for use in cars.

• Solid oxide fuel cellSolid oxide fuel cell (SOFC): Best suited for (SOFC): Best suited for large-scale stationary power generators that large-scale stationary power generators that could provide electricity for factories or towns. could provide electricity for factories or towns. This type of fuel cell operates at very high This type of fuel cell operates at very high temperatures (around 1,000 deg C). temperatures (around 1,000 deg C).

…….Fuel Cells.Fuel Cells

• This high temperature of This high temperature of SOFC SOFC makes reliability makes reliability a problem, but it also has an advantage: The a problem, but it also has an advantage: The steam produced by the fuel cell can be steam produced by the fuel cell can be channeled into turbines to generate more channeled into turbines to generate more electricity. This improves the overall efficiency of electricity. This improves the overall efficiency of the system. the system.

• Molten carbonate fuel cellMolten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC): These fuel (MCFC): These fuel cells are also best suited for large stationary cells are also best suited for large stationary power generators. They operate at 1,112 F (600 power generators. They operate at 1,112 F (600 C), so they also generate steam that can be used C), so they also generate steam that can be used to generate more power. They have a lower to generate more power. They have a lower operating temperature than the SOFC, which operating temperature than the SOFC, which means they don't need such exotic materials. means they don't need such exotic materials. This makes the design a little less expensive. This makes the design a little less expensive.

FC Bus In Vancouver, FC Bus In Vancouver, CanadaCanada

The catch!As a fuel clean but producing hydrogen pollutes tremendously!

The real situation

BATTERY

Plant eff. Where electri generated : 40%

Charging : 90%

Motor/ inverter : 80%

AC to DC : 90%

SO THE NET EFFICIENCY= 26%

For Fuel Cell Car, it turns out to be 24- 32%

Compare with petrol- which is 20%

SO AT PRESENT NEARLY THE SAME BUT…

On the Right Road FC!On the Right Road FC!

• Over 700 vehicles on trial world overOver 700 vehicles on trial world over

• Honda’s over 20 FCX Honda’s over 20 FCX

• Ford’s 30 Focus FCVFord’s 30 Focus FCV

• About 30 Daimler- Chrysler’s buses in 10 European About 30 Daimler- Chrysler’s buses in 10 European citiescities

• About 13 GM’s FC- powered buses in NYAbout 13 GM’s FC- powered buses in NY

• Juelich Centre made a scooter run by hydrogen Juelich Centre made a scooter run by hydrogen natteries (natteries (which I also rode in July- 2006which I also rode in July- 2006!)!)

• BMW has cars ready that run on hydrogen cellsBMW has cars ready that run on hydrogen cells

The Future Already Seen!The Future Already Seen!

• The Altek Group announced on 22 January, The Altek Group announced on 22 January, 2007 that it has applied for a patent for a 2007 that it has applied for a patent for a fully self-contained fully self-contained portable Alkaline Fuel portable Alkaline Fuel Cell Power SupplyCell Power Supply System. System.

• The APS 100 based on Altek’s aluminum-air The APS 100 based on Altek’s aluminum-air fuel cell technology with a continuous fuel cell technology with a continuous power output of 100 watts. power output of 100 watts.

• Its efficiency (60-80%)Its efficiency (60-80%)

• Reduced weight, versatility, extended Reduced weight, versatility, extended running time and quiet operation make it running time and quiet operation make it extremely well suited for the diverse power extremely well suited for the diverse power needs of military services.needs of military services.

An Ad in USA!An Ad in USA!• Switch To Hydrogen!Switch To Hydrogen!

• The United Nuclear Hydrogen Fuel System Kit converts The United Nuclear Hydrogen Fuel System Kit converts your existing vehicle to run on Hydrogen.your existing vehicle to run on Hydrogen.Complete kits will soon be available for various late-Complete kits will soon be available for various late-model cars & trucks as well as individual system model cars & trucks as well as individual system components for those who choose to assemble their components for those who choose to assemble their own kits.own kits.Included in the kits (and also available separately) is Included in the kits (and also available separately) is our solar powered Hydrogen Generator that our solar powered Hydrogen Generator that manufactures the Hydrogen fuel for your vehicle at manufactures the Hydrogen fuel for your vehicle at virtually zero cost.virtually zero cost.Simply put, you never have to buy Gasoline again.Simply put, you never have to buy Gasoline again.Since there are no major changes made to your engine, Since there are no major changes made to your engine, you can still run your vehicle on Gasoline at any time.you can still run your vehicle on Gasoline at any time.We now have We now have over 50,000 trouble-free miles over 50,000 trouble-free miles on our on our prototype vehicles. We are currently fleet-testing our prototype vehicles. We are currently fleet-testing our systems and are in final preparation for sales to the systems and are in final preparation for sales to the

general publicgeneral public..

FutureFuture

• Fuel-cell-powered cars Fuel-cell-powered cars should start to replace should start to replace gas- and diesel-engine gas- and diesel-engine cars sooncars soon

• For portable electronics For portable electronics

like like laptop computers, laptop computers,

mobile cells, even mobile cells, even hearing aids. hearing aids.

• The fuel cell will have The fuel cell will have much longer life than a much longer life than a battery battery

The Crystal Ball..The Crystal Ball..

• The fuel-cell technologies being developed for power The fuel-cell technologies being developed for power plants will generate electricity directly from hydrogen plants will generate electricity directly from hydrogen in the fuel cell, but will also use the heat and water in the fuel cell, but will also use the heat and water produced in the cell to power steam turbines and produced in the cell to power steam turbines and generate even more electricity. There are already generate even more electricity. There are already large portable fuel-cell systems available for large portable fuel-cell systems available for providing backup power to hospitals and factories.providing backup power to hospitals and factories.

• Use of the heat and steam generated in running Use of the heat and steam generated in running turbines and producing electricity will be possible in turbines and producing electricity will be possible in case of cells where reaction takes place at high case of cells where reaction takes place at high temperature such as in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC).temperature such as in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC).

InitiativesInitiatives• However, using the current technologies, it is too expensive However, using the current technologies, it is too expensive

to produce, store, transport, and distribute hydrogen fuel, to produce, store, transport, and distribute hydrogen fuel, or to build fuel cell engines. or to build fuel cell engines. Hence developed countries are Hence developed countries are putting in lot of money. For instance USA: US$ 1.2 Billion putting in lot of money. For instance USA: US$ 1.2 Billion iniative for hydrogen. Denmark announced US$ 200 million iniative for hydrogen. Denmark announced US$ 200 million and so on.and so on.

• India will go for coal bed methane and gas- hydrates which’d India will go for coal bed methane and gas- hydrates which’d also provide hydrogenalso provide hydrogen

• USA and Europe have spent tens of billions of dollars over USA and Europe have spent tens of billions of dollars over more than a decade on fuel cell car research . These include more than a decade on fuel cell car research . These include GM, Ford, BMW, Daimler-Chrysler, Honda and other leading GM, Ford, BMW, Daimler-Chrysler, Honda and other leading brands.brands.

• Institutions like Joint Research Centre, Juelich are actively Institutions like Joint Research Centre, Juelich are actively engagedengaged

• About 70 hydrogen filling plants exist world- wide i.e. in About 70 hydrogen filling plants exist world- wide i.e. in USA, Europe, JapanUSA, Europe, Japan

The ChallengesThe Challenges

• The fuel itself- high- mileage, low The fuel itself- high- mileage, low pollution, cheap, available in plenty, pollution, cheap, available in plenty, low volume, lightlow volume, light

• Its storage without lossIts storage without loss• Its storage in reasonable amount (At Its storage in reasonable amount (At

present a car ran 550 kms on 11 Kgs present a car ran 550 kms on 11 Kgs of hydrogen)of hydrogen)

• Safety considerationsSafety considerations

Dependence on Research in Dependence on Research in Other FieldsOther Fields

• To store hydrogen, cryo- storage techniques To store hydrogen, cryo- storage techniques are neededare needed

• This demands very high surface to volume or This demands very high surface to volume or surface to mass ratio.surface to mass ratio.

•

• This means very small, nano- sized, particles This means very small, nano- sized, particles are needed which would facilitate efficient are needed which would facilitate efficient adsorption of hydrogen e.g. material (Pt- adsorption of hydrogen e.g. material (Pt- coated C) developed provide 150- 300 m sq coated C) developed provide 150- 300 m sq surface per gmsurface per gm

Road MapRoad Map

• Research on gadgets making more efficient use of Research on gadgets making more efficient use of energy is as much important like fuel- eff. cars energy is as much important like fuel- eff. cars

• New material for building houses as we need New material for building houses as we need higher air conditioning and associated energy higher air conditioning and associated energy expenditure because house roof and walls absorb expenditure because house roof and walls absorb heat through sun rays. Probably new paints will heat through sun rays. Probably new paints will help.help.

• Creative approach: On one hand, the fridge Creative approach: On one hand, the fridge dissipates heat; on the other we spend fuel to cook dissipates heat; on the other we spend fuel to cook by heatingby heating

• Material research will assume centre stage as we Material research will assume centre stage as we transport 1000 Kg car to carry a 70 kg passenger. transport 1000 Kg car to carry a 70 kg passenger. We need lighter, sturdier and better materials for We need lighter, sturdier and better materials for making cars. making cars.

• Ways to generate hydrogen cleanly and then store Ways to generate hydrogen cleanly and then store itit

• Fusion holds potential, though still a far dreamFusion holds potential, though still a far dream• Even our personal habits need change.Even our personal habits need change.

A PledgeA Pledge

• Reduce the use of fossil fuels (coal, petrol, Reduce the use of fossil fuels (coal, petrol, diesel etc.). diesel etc.).

• We shall keep and encourage others to keep We shall keep and encourage others to keep their vehicles' engines tuned to avoid pollution their vehicles' engines tuned to avoid pollution and conserve ozone layer. Also no idling at the and conserve ozone layer. Also no idling at the crossings. Sensible driving, that is no sudden crossings. Sensible driving, that is no sudden acceleration and deceleration which wastes fuel. acceleration and deceleration which wastes fuel. We shall use the lowest power vehicle as far as We shall use the lowest power vehicle as far as possible. For short distances, we will walk or possible. For short distances, we will walk or use bicycle, otherwise two- wheeler instead of use bicycle, otherwise two- wheeler instead of car. car.

• Use public transport whenever possible, share Use public transport whenever possible, share vehicle by turn and so on. vehicle by turn and so on. Vehicles consume Vehicles consume energy, pollute atmosphere and damage ozone energy, pollute atmosphere and damage ozone layer.layer.

ReferencesReferences

• 1. John Broome in Sci Ame (June 1. John Broome in Sci Ame (June 2008), 58.2008), 58.

• 2.James Hansen in Sci Ame. 290,3 2.James Hansen in Sci Ame. 290,3 (2004), p.68(2004), p.68

• 3.Mathew L Wald in Sci Ame 290,5 3.Mathew L Wald in Sci Ame 290,5 (2004), p.66 (Q about hyd. Economy)(2004), p.66 (Q about hyd. Economy)

• Sci. Ame. March 2005 (Steven Sci. Ame. March 2005 (Steven Ashley)- p. 63Ashley)- p. 63

ThanksThanks

The Right to EnergyThe Right to EnergyThe Right Energy in the The Right Energy in the Changing ClimateChanging Climate

  • Dr. CM NautiyalDr. CM Nautiyal

• BSIP, 53, University RoadBSIP, 53, University Road

• Lucknow- 226007Lucknow- 226007

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• Someone had rightly remarked that we not running short of energy; we are running short of environment! Situation is indeed such. Even if Someone had rightly remarked that we not running short of energy; we are running short of environment! Situation is indeed such. Even if we were to hit upon a huge hydrocarbon reservoir such as of petroleum or natural gas, or a huge coal deposit, it doesn’t solve our problem. we were to hit upon a huge hydrocarbon reservoir such as of petroleum or natural gas, or a huge coal deposit, it doesn’t solve our problem. It will give us only energy. The consumption of these resources will harm the atmosphere beyond any repair. So discovering just any source It will give us only energy. The consumption of these resources will harm the atmosphere beyond any repair. So discovering just any source of energy is not enough. From a scenario where state of progress and prosperity of a society was measured by the energy- consumption per of energy is not enough. From a scenario where state of progress and prosperity of a society was measured by the energy- consumption per capita, we have reached a state where soon low energy consumption per capita will be the index!capita, we have reached a state where soon low energy consumption per capita will be the index!

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• There are estimates that if super giants India and China’s population- growth continued at the present trend, and energy- consumption There are estimates that if super giants India and China’s population- growth continued at the present trend, and energy- consumption reaches the level of North Korea, they will consume as much oil as the world did in a single year in 2003. It’s difficult to find a reason why reaches the level of North Korea, they will consume as much oil as the world did in a single year in 2003. It’s difficult to find a reason why these countries should be denied a right to live at a level North Korea does! So the answer lies not in just finding new and cheaper energy these countries should be denied a right to live at a level North Korea does! So the answer lies not in just finding new and cheaper energy sources; they should be non- polluting too.sources; they should be non- polluting too.

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• Climate change has focused the attention of the world on energy. It’s not that everywhere the temperature has gone up. The right way to Climate change has focused the attention of the world on energy. It’s not that everywhere the temperature has gone up. The right way to sum up the climate change scenario is to say that the frequency of extreme events has increased. The main reason is believed to be a sum up the climate change scenario is to say that the frequency of extreme events has increased. The main reason is believed to be a radical change in the energy budget of the atmosphere. The energy- generation and industrial activities cause lot of carbon dioxide, radical change in the energy budget of the atmosphere. The energy- generation and industrial activities cause lot of carbon dioxide, methane and oxides of nitrogen etc. to be released into the atmosphere. The more of these obnoxious gases we spew into the atmosphere, methane and oxides of nitrogen etc. to be released into the atmosphere. The more of these obnoxious gases we spew into the atmosphere, the grimmer the climate change scenario becomes. The measurements on polar ice have clearly indicated an increase of 50% in the level of the grimmer the climate change scenario becomes. The measurements on polar ice have clearly indicated an increase of 50% in the level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere since industrial age began, and stands at about 385 parts per million in the atmosphere. carbon dioxide in the atmosphere since industrial age began, and stands at about 385 parts per million in the atmosphere.

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• There are concerns all over. The experts are not unanimous on the degree of change or even on the change at all. There are skeptics who There are concerns all over. The experts are not unanimous on the degree of change or even on the change at all. There are skeptics who doubt the degree and those who vehemently deny. But one must distinguish between the climate change skeptics and the deniers. It doubt the degree and those who vehemently deny. But one must distinguish between the climate change skeptics and the deniers. It would be right to say that climate change is happening. The degree may or may not be as high as projected or everywhere. Many glaciers would be right to say that climate change is happening. The degree may or may not be as high as projected or everywhere. Many glaciers are melting but not all. Minor aberrations like this notwithstanding, in general climate is behaving differently. There are serious concerns are melting but not all. Minor aberrations like this notwithstanding, in general climate is behaving differently. There are serious concerns that if the Green House gases like carbon dioxide, methane and oxides of nitrogen continue to increase and the Green House potential of the that if the Green House gases like carbon dioxide, methane and oxides of nitrogen continue to increase and the Green House potential of the atmosphere goes on shooting up, a time may come when the oceans will no more act as sink for the carbon. At present, a huge chunk of the atmosphere goes on shooting up, a time may come when the oceans will no more act as sink for the carbon. At present, a huge chunk of the carbon that goes into the atmosphere is absorbed by the oceans. With increasing carbon that goes into the atmosphere is absorbed by the oceans. With increasing

• temperature, even this capacity of the oceans will go down (Have you seen the difference in the behaviour of a cold drink when kept in the fridge and temperature, even this capacity of the oceans will go down (Have you seen the difference in the behaviour of a cold drink when kept in the fridge and when kept out?)when kept out?)

•   • However, situation is not entirely hopeless. With a continuous improvement in energy efficient gadgets, possibility of attaining fusion in the laboratory However, situation is not entirely hopeless. With a continuous improvement in energy efficient gadgets, possibility of attaining fusion in the laboratory

even though somewhat remote at present and emergence of hydrogen as a clean fuel source, even though the over- all efficiency is low, it appears that even though somewhat remote at present and emergence of hydrogen as a clean fuel source, even though the over- all efficiency is low, it appears that we may be heading towards a cleaner energy scenario. we may be heading towards a cleaner energy scenario.

•   • We all are familiar with the conventional energy sources like wood, coal, hydrocarbon (petrol, diesel, LPG, CNG), nuclear fission and hydroelectricity. The We all are familiar with the conventional energy sources like wood, coal, hydrocarbon (petrol, diesel, LPG, CNG), nuclear fission and hydroelectricity. The

last one of these is definitely most environment- friendly. But the needs of the world can’t be fulfilled by this alone. Of late, several alternative sources of last one of these is definitely most environment- friendly. But the needs of the world can’t be fulfilled by this alone. Of late, several alternative sources of energy have been developed and are in use. There are some that look really promising like Fuel Cell. Then processes like nuclear fusion are slowly being energy have been developed and are in use. There are some that look really promising like Fuel Cell. Then processes like nuclear fusion are slowly being brought into the domain of probable.brought into the domain of probable.

•   • In addition to the conventional sources, we now have some more sources, even if with limited production:In addition to the conventional sources, we now have some more sources, even if with limited production:•   • Solar energy:Solar energy: The present efficiency of the conversion of solar energy into electricity being low, the cost of solar panels and batteries being high and The present efficiency of the conversion of solar energy into electricity being low, the cost of solar panels and batteries being high and

free space shrinking, there are limitations. The disposal of the old panels and batteries is an additional problem but the generation is quite pollution free.free space shrinking, there are limitations. The disposal of the old panels and batteries is an additional problem but the generation is quite pollution free.•   • Wind energy:Wind energy: Germany leads (rather than Denmark whose name seems to remind everyone of wind turbines) and India has a huge potential of 45,000 Germany leads (rather than Denmark whose name seems to remind everyone of wind turbines) and India has a huge potential of 45,000

MW of wind driven units. In Gujarat and Maharashtra, major projects have been undertaken.MW of wind driven units. In Gujarat and Maharashtra, major projects have been undertaken.•   • Bio Fuels:Bio Fuels: Ethanol and methanol are being used as additives, independent energy sources or fuel for the cells. But the dilemma of farmers remains: To Ethanol and methanol are being used as additives, independent energy sources or fuel for the cells. But the dilemma of farmers remains: To

grow corn or wheat!grow corn or wheat!•   • Tidal energy:Tidal energy: The tapping of tidal energy is an attractive idea but so far very limited efforts have been made. The tapping of tidal energy is an attractive idea but so far very limited efforts have been made.•   • Fuel cells using ethanol:Fuel cells using ethanol: In fuel cells, hydrogen is flown to the anode where a platinum catalyst (platinum powder coated on cloth or paper) breaks it In fuel cells, hydrogen is flown to the anode where a platinum catalyst (platinum powder coated on cloth or paper) breaks it

into electrons and positive ion. Polymer Electrolyte Membrane is used to filter the positive ions through. These two travel through different parts of circuit into electrons and positive ion. Polymer Electrolyte Membrane is used to filter the positive ions through. These two travel through different parts of circuit and meet with oxygen at cathode to form water and energy. and meet with oxygen at cathode to form water and energy.

•   • Hydrogen:Hydrogen: Burning of hydrogen as fuel produces energy and water. So obviously it’s a 100% pollution- free fuel. The problem is when we consider well- Burning of hydrogen as fuel produces energy and water. So obviously it’s a 100% pollution- free fuel. The problem is when we consider well-

to- wheel to- wheel

• scenario. The process of producing hydrogen is itself quite polluting and the over –all- efficiency is not very different from hydrocarbons. scenario. The process of producing hydrogen is itself quite polluting and the over –all- efficiency is not very different from hydrocarbons. •   • Gas hydrates:Gas hydrates: At the ocean bottom, there are huge frozen deposits of gas hydrates made of gases like methane. These are valuable as fuel and At the ocean bottom, there are huge frozen deposits of gas hydrates made of gases like methane. These are valuable as fuel and

hydrogen source. hydrogen source. •   • Coal Bed Methane:Coal Bed Methane: By virtue of being highly porous, coal has tremendous gas- absorption potential. Under the surface, there are coal deposits By virtue of being highly porous, coal has tremendous gas- absorption potential. Under the surface, there are coal deposits

storing huge amount of methane. Tapping it can be a precious energy source. storing huge amount of methane. Tapping it can be a precious energy source. •   • Geochemical energy, Geothermal energy etc. are also promising. While nuclear fusion is the most promising, it’s still a long way. For a common Geochemical energy, Geothermal energy etc. are also promising. While nuclear fusion is the most promising, it’s still a long way. For a common

man, planting trees, sharing vehicles, saving on consumption of electricity, more efficient public transport system are the best routes to take. The man, planting trees, sharing vehicles, saving on consumption of electricity, more efficient public transport system are the best routes to take. The scientists and technologists will continue to search for more energy- efficient gadgets, more environment- friendly ways to produce hydrogen and scientists and technologists will continue to search for more energy- efficient gadgets, more environment- friendly ways to produce hydrogen and make fuel efficient cars. They will develop materials for vehicles, which are stronger and lighter. They will invent paints that will keep houses cool make fuel efficient cars. They will develop materials for vehicles, which are stronger and lighter. They will invent paints that will keep houses cool in summers and warm in winter, reducing the need for air conditioning. Clothes that will repulse dust because of their nano- material surface, will in summers and warm in winter, reducing the need for air conditioning. Clothes that will repulse dust because of their nano- material surface, will reduce energy spent in washing clothes. Just as we moved from wood and charcoal to diesel, oil, incandescent bulbs, tube lights, CFL and now LED reduce energy spent in washing clothes. Just as we moved from wood and charcoal to diesel, oil, incandescent bulbs, tube lights, CFL and now LED light sources, still better gadgets will be developed. But there is another angle. One also has to see that the new devices are environment- light sources, still better gadgets will be developed. But there is another angle. One also has to see that the new devices are environment- friendly. Better roads, better traffic management and many such seemingly unrelated approaches will also help us fight the demon of changing friendly. Better roads, better traffic management and many such seemingly unrelated approaches will also help us fight the demon of changing climate.climate.

•   •   •   • [[The Author:The Author: Dr. CM Nautiyal is basically a physicist and a product of University of Roorkee (now IIT- Roorkee) and PRL, Ahmedabad. He is a Dr. CM Nautiyal is basically a physicist and a product of University of Roorkee (now IIT- Roorkee) and PRL, Ahmedabad. He is a

recipient of 5 scholarships during studies and later INSA- DFG Fellowship to Germany. He received INSA Medal for Young Scientists, Vigyan recipient of 5 scholarships during studies and later INSA- DFG Fellowship to Germany. He received INSA Medal for Young Scientists, Vigyan Vachaspati from Vigyan Parishad, Prayag; and recognition from ISMAS, Meteoritical Soc., USA and many science clubs. In addition to75 research Vachaspati from Vigyan Parishad, Prayag; and recognition from ISMAS, Meteoritical Soc., USA and many science clubs. In addition to75 research contributions in journals, abstract books and proceedings, he has many co- authored/ co- edited books, popular articles. He is a well known science contributions in journals, abstract books and proceedings, he has many co- authored/ co- edited books, popular articles. He is a well known science communicator too and has led several science popularisation campaigns in addition to delivering about 350 lectures on science and science communicator too and has led several science popularisation campaigns in addition to delivering about 350 lectures on science and science communication. He has contributed to an international encyclopedia by Sage, USA, chapters to several books and course materials. He has been communication. He has contributed to an international encyclopedia by Sage, USA, chapters to several books and course materials. He has been on several national committees on science. He has visited several countries including France, USA, UK, Germany, Switzerland and South Africa. At on several national committees on science. He has visited several countries including France, USA, UK, Germany, Switzerland and South Africa. At present, he is scientist-in- charge of the Radiocarbon laboratory at Birbal Sahni Instt. Palaeobotany, Lucknow. present, he is scientist-in- charge of the Radiocarbon laboratory at Birbal Sahni Instt. Palaeobotany, Lucknow.

•   • Contact:Contact: cmnautiyal@yahoo.co.uk, 9415107078], 9415107078]