Energy balance of an Indian semi-arid rural ecosystem using field, ancillary and geospatial data

Abstract

This study presents an estimation of net energy balance resulting from primary production vis-a-vis energy consumption through various components in a semi-arid rural ecosystem of Ralegan Siddhi village, Maharashtra, India. An end use energy accounting ‘Rural Energy Balance Model’ is developed for input-output analysis of various anthropogenic energy flows within the village system boundary. An integrated approach using field, ancillary, GIS and high resolution satellite data is used for generation of various model inputs. The primary and secondary field data collection of available energy resources and consumption at household and village level were carried out using structured schedules and questionnaires. The model inputs were converted to energy equivalents using country-specific energy conversion factors. The Net Energy Balance of this semi-arid village ecosystem is estimated at 13.06 TJ, indicating a self-sustaining rural ecosystem. The results of this study are useful inputs for policy and planning the optimal utilization of available and future energy requirements for rural development.