As the world is trying to cut down on its carbon emissions, the need to learn about the types of renewable energy sources is more than evident. Today we find ourselves relying on a much larger number of different types of energy than ever before. There is also an increasing amount of dependence on imported oil from unstable nations.
The two most popular types of renewable energy source are solar power and hydroelectricity. Solar power is perhaps the easiest to harness. It requires little to no installation, and it is the most consistent source of power. Solar power can be used to supplement the electricity that you get from your local utility company, or to completely replace it. Hydroelectric power is a much more powerful source of power, but it does have a much larger environmental impact.
Hydroelectric power is most commonly generated by dams. In large rivers, turbines are sometimes used to induce hydroelectric energy. The turbines turn so slowly that the water that they generate is not able to flow out of the dam. Instead, the water flows into the turbines and is converted into steam, which is used to drive turbines that create electricity.
Another good option for a smaller scale renewable source of energy is wind power. Like solar energy turbines, wind turbines are usually installed on rooftops. Wind turbines generate electricity when wind hits the turbine blades. Although wind turbines are less predictable than solar energy turbines, they do not have as much of an environmental impact. On a smaller scale, this is a viable option.
Another option for heating homes is with a concept called photovoltaic (PV). Photovoltaic systems convert light energy into electrical energy. One advantage of using this type of system is that it does not need any type of fuel. It can potentially be used to heat homes in areas where fuel sources are difficult to find or in areas where access to fuel is unavailable.
An alternative to fossil fuels is to use geothermal energy. This is a renewable energy source that derives its power from natural forces within the earth. Some geothermal plants use pipes below ground and pumps to draw power directly from the earth. A geothermal plant may not be feasible on a large scale, but some rural homeowners are experimenting with this system. It releases little carbon dioxide, so it is considered a green energy source.
Geothermal energy cannot be used in all places because it is sensitive to temperature changes and other factors. Instead, it can be used in cold countries that do not face significant changes in temperature. In warmer regions, the earth tends to retain more heat. Geothermal plants usually rely on two types of heat: the direct heat from the sun and the lost heat from cooling air. By capturing the heat from the sun and transferring it to a generator, the generator can turn it into electricity.
There are many options available for homeowners to use as a part of their home’s electricity generation. Using these methods is not only cheaper than traditional fossil fuels and plants, but they are also more environmentally responsible. With the abundance of wind and sunshine in many locations, using renewable energy sources is an excellent way to save money, protect the environment, and reduce personal impact. It will also probably help you save money, because utility companies often charge you extra for electricity if you generate your own.
Biomass energy refers to any type of renewable resource that comes from living things. You can get wood, vegetable oil, manure, or sewage, which are considered biomass energy. These types of energy are usually burned for heat or electricity. The problem is that since organic material cannot be manufactured, it must be harvested from living things; this is a very inefficient method of producing energy.
Fossil fuels include coal, oil, and natural gas. These types of energy are not produced by living things but rather by using the Earth’s resources. Because fossil fuels are mostly burned for heat, they release large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Greenhouse gases, chlorofluorocarbons (HOCs), and other pollutants are released with the combustion process, adding to the problem of global warming.
Ocean energy is a great option for homeowners because it does not deplete the ocean’s oxygen. In addition, it has zero impact on the environment. Aside, from being a cheap source of renewable energy, ocean energy also offers a number of other benefits including reliability, efficiency, flexibility, and safety. For homes located near the ocean, this option can save them money by reducing power bills and providing them with additional income.