摘要：Punjab is an economically advanced and energy-intensive state of India. However, the state power sector is facing challenges to align energy supply and demand due to steep rise in electricity consumption. Fossil fuel constraints and mandate to reduce greenhouse gas emissions are some of the major challenges to meet growing electricity demand. Accelerated generation of renewable power is the need of the hour, given the abundance of renewable energy resources in Punjab. This paper examines the current state of electricity in Punjab and the impact of increased population, economic activities and urbanization on the power sector of the state. Various initiatives including policies at national and state level to foster renewable energy development in the state have also been reviewed. We observed substantial increase in renewable power capacity through solar and small hydropower installation in the state. However, energy potential from agro-forestry biomass and waste sectors yet to be tapped fully. Bio-energy generation from crop residue should also be a focus area for the state primarily to minimize pollution and health impacts due to residue burning. Appropriate policy intervention along with stable renewable energy market is important to encourage further development of clean energy in Punjab.
关键词：Urbanization ; Electricity ; Renewable power ; Biomass ; Solar
