The realities of climate change have raised alarm bells with scientists, governments, and other organizations, as we realize that our dependence on fossil fuels is driving much of the degradation of our planet. One of the significant ways we can start reversing the effects of climate change is to begin using clean (or renewable) energy. However, there is much information about clean energy, and it can be challenging to sort through it all. But, like anything new, the best place to start is to ask some basic questions.
What is Clean Energy?
Clean energy comes from natural and constant sources like sunlight, wind, and biomass. We can use it to heat our homes, power our cars, and rely on it perpetually because it is renewable. Using renewable energy sources has been something humanity has done for thousands of years. Burning wood was one of the first examples of using renewable energy to make fire, while windmills and ships harnessed the power of the wind.
Why is it Important?
Unfortunately, for far too long, we have depended on nonrenewable energy sources, such as gas, oil, and coal. We have consumed too many of these resources at too quick a pace, and soon, these resources will run out, not to be renewed for millions of years. With renewable energy, we can also stop relying on other countries for our energy sources. This is important because such reliance has, in the past, led to conflict and insecurity. Searching for renewable energy could also lead to cheaper and cleaner ways of using electricity and heating our homes.
Who is Involved?
Climate change concerns are one of the top issues for governments worldwide, and many companies are taking the initiative and leading the charge on this issue. In recent years, emerging technologies have driven energy companies to pursue alternative methods for harnessing different forms of renewable energy. Companies are giving customers carbon-neutral energy options; some have even developed various broadband and electricity combined plans that make switching over to carbon-neutral standards far easier.
What are the Types of Clean Energy?
Wind Power
The giant, white wind turbines that make up wind farms have increased in prevalence over the years and converted wind power into electricity.
Solar Power
Harnessing the sun’s power is one of the most promising renewable energy methods. Solar panels heat and power many homes and businesses and are one of the cheapest and most effective ways.
Biomass Energy
Many homes get heat and hot water from low-carbon boilers that use wood for fuel. This is a prime example of utilizing biomass energy. Biomass can also be converted to biofuels, which have the potential to replace fossil fuels.
Hydropower
One of the most popular ways of producing electricity is through hydropower. There has been more development of micropower -hydroelectric systems in research that can power smaller communities. Think of the Hoover Dam, which provides power to hundreds of thousands of homes geothermal Energy
This type of energy uses the heat held in the earth via hot springs. Using geothermal energy still needs more time to gain traction, but it has been used for centuries by different civilizations. The future of clean energy looks promising. Soon, reliance on fossil fuels will be a thing of the past, allowing us to be self-sufficient and sustainable. We can shift our focus to more renewable energy sources and live on a clean, healthy planet.
