ENERGY ALTERNATIVES: RENEWABLE
ENERGY AND ENERGY CONSERVATION
TECHNOLOGIES
Extension and Training
Usually, energy programmes require a system by which end use
devices, such as Improved Cook stoves (IC's) and biogas are
disseminated in accordance with the programme objectives.
Dissemination mechanisms become extremely important when the
end use device is new to the user. Unfamiliar technology
obviously raises a number of questions that can be answered
only when the technology is successfully implemented and
comprehensively evaluated. In order to strengthen the
dissemination process, there is a need for rural energy
centres. The purpose is to demonstrate the energy techniques
that are suitable for local conditions and see that these
techniques are practical and reliable from the farmers and
locals' point of view. The objectives of the Regional Energy
Centres should be to:
(i) study energy supply and consumption patterns to
identify village needs,
(ii) demonstrate the use of efficient energy devices and
disseminate , monitor and evaluate appropriate
technologies,
(iii) augment the fuel supply situation through energy
plantations and other decentralised means, and
(iv) analyse the impact of energy-related activities on the
socio - economic development of the village and
improvement of its environment.
Besides promotion of energy, the local panchayaths by
themselves constitute a very strong extension network.
Currently, the energy development agencies at the State level
have little or no field staff. As a result, their rural
energy programmes have suffered. The village panchayat can
help fill this gap and can provide valuable assistance
through quick dissemination and extension work.