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Renewable Energy Essentially, renewable energy comes from natural resources which we have an abundance of. The wind, rain, sunlight and geothermal heat are all forms of natural resources which can be replenished and will not run out so it makes perfect sense to utilise them over forms of non-renewable energy which will, eventually, run out. Tidal Power By turning the power of the tide into energy, 20% of Britain's energy needs can be met. Of course, the tide is only possible to harness twice a day but the use of tidal barrages has become an innovative way in which to channel the energy. At the same time, the tide is predictable and will always be present and therefore there will always be a way to harness its power. Solar Power This type of power involves turning the sun's light into electricity. This is one of the most relevant types of renewable energy and technology is advancing quickly in order to keep up with it, through solar panels and cells. It's a free source of energy and can be used for various needs, including as an aid to the central heating. The panels, however, are expensive and it doesn't work at night. Wind Power Wind power has been used as a source of energy for a very long time so it makes sense that it's still efficiently utilised today. Wind farms are a common sight and the massive turbines produce electricity as the wind turns them. The land used for wind farms can be used for farming and there are no gases produced but at the same time, the wind is unpredictable and the structures are visual pollution. Hydroelectricity Like tidal energy, this form of energy relies on the power of running water as it travels through tunnels, turning turbines. Dams are built to control the flow and it produces electricity in a natural and environmentally friendly way. As the water cycle is continuous, the energy is renewable and very reliable. However, it's difficult to find that perfect spot and the dams are expensive to build. Geothermal Power With temperatures at the centre of the Earth being around 6000 degrees Celsius, it makes sense to turn that heat into a form of energy. As the hot steam comes up holes built in the earth, it's converted into useful energy and no pollution is produced. Additionally, the stations being built are relatively small. However, it's difficult to find the perfect location once again and hazardous gases come up through the earth. Biomass Biomass is the decay and conversion of biological matter. Some forms of waste can be burned as fuel and others, such as plant matter, can be used for chemicals and other materials. Using up as much waste as possible is productive and efficient and reduces our dependence on fuels such as coal and oil. However, it's difficult to collect it all in mass and the burning can produce greenhouse gases. Renewable energy in the past Renewable energy in the future (?) Copyright 2004 planetearth-india.com All Rights Reserved |