Authors: Mrs. R. Ruth Rebecca, Dr. R. Bagavathi Muthu, Dr. S. Kasi
Abstract: This study examined trends and changes in energy intensity in India's iron and steel manufacturing sector from 2016–17 to 2022–23, with the objective of assessing progress in energy efficiency relative to economic output. Using an analytical research design, the research relied on secondary data from official government sources, including energy consumption statistics and gross value added (GVA) figures. The methodology standardised energy data to a common unit and calculated energy intensity as the ratio of total energy consumption to real GVA, then analysed year-on-year variations. Findings showed that energy intensity did not follow a steady trend during the study period: while it generally declined in some years, indicating improved efficiency, it increased sharply in others, especially in 2022–23. These fluctuations were influenced by factors such as industrial slowdowns, economic recovery periods, and changes in production practices. The study suggests that further improvements in energy efficiency can be achieved by adopting advanced technologies, increasing renewable energy use, strengthening energy management and monitoring, and enhancing government policy initiatives. The results highlight the ongoing need to prioritise energy-efficient practices to ensure sustainable growth in India's iron and steel sector.
DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.22303661
