Causal Relationship between GDP, Electricity Generation & Environmental Degradation

Abstract

In India the thermal power plants play an important role in the supply of power that is electricity as 66% power is obtained from coal combustion. Consequently, Economic growth of any country, i.e.  GDP is of primary concern. To achieve a reasonable rate of growth, adequate energy supply in the form of electricity is inevitable. All the developments are possible only by the use of energy, As a results of high dependence on energy sources. The total electricity generation in the country increased from 499.5 (BUS) in (2000-01) to 1249.33 (BUS) during (2018-19), Installed capacity of electric power station under utilities was 68323.32 (MW) in (2000-01) consisting of 63857.38 (MW) from thermal, which had increased to226279.3 (MW) as on (2018-19) consisting of 194444.50 (MW) from thermal sources consequently, carbon emission is emanating from the burning of coal. As a results harmful gases are emitted for example sulfur dioxide (SO2), Sulfur trioxide (SO3), nitrogen oxides (NOx), Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide (CO2), Nitric Oxide (NO), These gases are causing many health problems to the people, which is a big threat to the economy. Although, we see that there are many such energy alternative which can prove to be helpful in preventing carbon emission to a large extent, serious effort to shift from coal based power plant to alternative energy needs greater national attempt Alternative energy systems such as solar energy, wind energy, biomass energy, bio fuel, hydro energy could be harnessed so as to fight against the battle of climate change. India is blessed with huge potential of these alternative sources. If we tap the potential of these sources, this substantially will help the economy to reduce carbon emission, without compromising the growth of economy. Causal relationship between GDP, electricity generation & co2 emission.

Section 1 of the paper highlights the Power Scenario of India. Section 2 discusses the Data analysis and interpretation. section 3 discusses the environmental degradation from Coal fired plants.

Lastly, Section 4 Provides measure to overcome environmental problems without compromising the growth.