Too much of the world still relies on coal and oil for its energy. Fossil fuels are not only non-renewable, they are also dangerous. As fossil fuels burn, CO2 is released into the air, which contributes to the global warming problem. Interest in safer energy solutions grows every day. Renewable energy methods are clean, safe, and less expensive than some people think.
Examples of Renewable Energy
Most renewable energy comes from the sun, whether directly or indirectly. Nearly everyone is familiar with the concepts of solar energy, wind power, and hydro power, but not everyone has heard of biomass. Biomass actually supplies more energy in the US than other forms of renewable energy.
However, it does require heat to work, and in order to preserve the ecology, many people prefer to use sunlight to supply that heat. Biomass sources are mostly trees and grasses, preferably from the waste from forestry such as leftover tree branches and tree tops, but as a whole are referred to as power crops.
Solar Energy
Sunlight is the main source of renewable energy which can be used to provide heat and light in buildings. Homeowners and businesses alike use it to power their homes and commercial buildings with electricity. Energy captured from the sun is referred to as solar power and solar technologies are categorized as being either active or passive depending on the way sunlight is captured, converted, and distributed. Solar panels take sunlight and convert it into electricity. Active methods involve the use of photovoltaic panels, fans, and pumps to convert solar power into outputs. Passive techniques include choosing materials with good thermal properties and referencing the position of a home or building to the sun.
Basically, active technology increases the supply of solar energy, while passive methods reduce the need for resources. Since the sun doesnt shine at night, storage methods are required. Businesses and homeowners alike are always looking for ways to store power gained from sunlight. Kits are available that include solar panels, collectors, and batteries. There are three ways to collect and store solar energy, flat-plate collectors, focusing collectors, and passive collectors.
Wind Power
Wind turbines can be used with a solar power system. Some people prefer using them whenever the sun isnt out. Generally, wind isnt the only source of power, and is only used when other renewable energy isnt available. Nevertheless, it can be quite useful. Wind turbines convert kinetic energy into mechanical power, and then the mechanical power is converted into electrical power through a generator.
Residential wind turbines are usually installed on the roof. Like solar panels, they can be purchased as a kit. A wind turbine can lower the electricity bill by 50% or more, depending on average wind speeds and location. Typically, a residential home is served by both the wind turbine and a local utility company. Whenever the wind speeds are below 10 mph, the needed electricity is acquired through the utility.
Because there are quite a few options for renewable energy, the country no longer has to rely solely on fossil fuels. Big businesses and homeowners are always looking for ways to save money on electricity, and renewable energy is the best solution in the foreseeable future. Renewable energy is also clean and safe, and doesnt contribute to global warming. Indeed, it helps reduce the pollution caused by carbon dioxide and methane emissions.
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