ME-604-C Renewable Energy Technology - Jun 2026 Question Paper

Under each question, How to answer lists the points an answer should cover, outlined by CampusPrep from the syllabus. Check the details against your textbook.

1. 7 Marks
   aDifferentiate between flat plate collectors and concentrating collectors.
   How to answer

   • Define flat plate collector: construction, temperature range, no concentration
   • Define concentrating collector: optics, concentration ratio, tracking, high temperature
   • Compare on basis of design, efficiency, applications, cost, maintenance
   • Conclude suitability for different applications
2. 7 Marks
   bExplain the need for selective coatings in solar collectors.
   How to answer

   • Define selective coating: high absorptivity low emissivity
   • Need to maximize solar absorption and minimize thermal re-radiation
   • Explain effect on collector efficiency and operating temperature
   • Give examples of selective surfaces and their properties
3. 7 Marks
   aDescribe the basic principles of wind energy conversion.
   How to answer

   • State kinetic energy in wind and power equation $P = \frac{1}{2}\rho A V^3$
   • Explain lift vs drag principle for rotor
   • Explain Betz limit and power coefficient
   • Explain conversion chain: rotor to generator
4. 7 Marks
   bDiscuss various techniques for the measurement and analysis of wind data.
   How to answer

   • List wind speed/direction instruments: anemometer, wind vane
   • Describe measurement procedure and site data logging
   • Explain data analysis: frequency distribution, Weibull, power duration curve
   • Mention use for site assessment and turbine selection
5. 7 Marks
   aClassify different types of biomass gasifiers and explain anyone of them.
   How to answer

   • Classify gasifiers: updraft, downdraft, crossdraft, fluidized bed
   • Brief features of each type
   • Explain construction and working of any one in detail
   • Mention gas quality and applications
6. 7 Marks
   bExplain the principle of biomass gasification. Discuss the various stages involved in the gasification process.
   How to answer

   • Define gasification: partial oxidation to producer gas
   • State principle and overall reactions
   • Describe stages: drying, pyrolysis, oxidation, reduction
   • Mention products and influencing factors
7. 7 Marks
   aExplain the principle of tidal energy conversion with suitable diagram.
   How to answer

   • State tidal energy origin: gravitational pull, high/low tide
   • Explain single-basin and double-basin schemes
   • Give power relation with basin area and tidal range
   • Include neat labelled diagram of tidal plant
8. 7 Marks
   bDescribe the principle and working of an Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) system with a neat diagram.
   How to answer

   • State OTEC principle: temperature difference between surface and deep water
   • Describe open, closed and hybrid cycles
   • Explain working with neat flow diagram
   • Mention efficiency limits and applications
9. 7 Marks
   aDiscuss the site selection criteria for geothermal power plants.
   How to answer

   • List criteria: geothermal gradient, reservoir temperature, permeability
   • Discuss water/steam availability, geochemistry, accessibility
   • Include environmental, seismic and economic factors
   • Conclude ideal site characteristics
10. 7 Marks
    bExplain the construction and working principle of a fuel cell with a neat diagram.
    How to answer

    • Define fuel cell and its components: anode, cathode, electrolyte
    • Explain electrochemical reaction with $H_2$ and $O_2$ example
    • Include neat labelled diagram of construction
    • Mention types, efficiency and applications
11. 7 Marks
    aExplain the methods used for biomass resource assessment.
    How to answer

    • Define need for biomass resource assessment
    • Describe survey, remote sensing and statistical methods
    • Explain yield estimation and energy potential calculation
    • Mention seasonal and geographic factors
12. 7 Marks
    bDifferentiate between $C_3$ and $C_4$ plants with respect to biomass production.
    How to answer

    • Define $C_3$ and $C_4$ photosynthetic pathways
    • Compare photosynthetic efficiency, water use, temperature response
    • Relate to biomass productivity and energy crops
    • Give examples of $C_3$ vs $C_4$ plants
13. 14 Marks
    Explain the methods of speed and voltage regulation in hydroelectric power plants. Discuss their importance in maintaining stable power generation.
    How to answer

    • Explain need for constant speed/frequency and voltage
    • Describe governor control and speed regulation methods
    • Describe excitation control and voltage regulation methods
    • Discuss importance for grid stability and stable generation
14. 14 Marks
    Explain the following: (Any Two)

    1. (i))Power curve of a wind turbine
    2. (ii))Solar dryers
    3. (iii))Selection of turbine for hydro power plant
    4. (iv))Methods of hydrogen production
    How to answer

    • For any two topics: give definition and principle
    • Explain construction/working with key points
    • Mention types, advantages and applications
    • Include diagram/curve where relevant