Renewable energy can be described as the type energy that won't run out, and doesn't rely on using oil or coal to create the fuels and power we rely on.
Traditional fossil fuels, such as those derived from oil and coal will run out one day, and there are currently many different types of sustainable alternatives which could be utilised instead.
The ever-increasing demand for electricity, gas and vehicle fuel, combined with the soaring costs of gas and electricity, means that finding reliable affordable and clean alternative energy sources is of paramount importance.
1. Solar Power
Solar power is probably the best known and most widely used form of renewable energy. It works by converting sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic cells, (PV). As sunlight hits the PV cell, some of the light is absorbed, transferring the energy to the PV cell. This loosens electrons in the PV cell which then flow freely, and can be controlled using electric fields. The electrons then become a current which can be harnessed by putting metal contacts at the top and bottom of the cell.
Solar Power technology is improving rapidly, and production of PV cells doubles approximately every 2 years, making solar power one of the fastest growing technologies in the world. Solar power can be used for heating and creating electricity in both domestic and commercial settings. Even in countries or areas that are traditionally not thought of as sunny, solar power can still be used, as the technology can use daylight, as well as bright sunlight. Small solar panels can be found on domestic goods such as calculators, battery chargers and garden lights, whilst larger solar panels can be found powering homes or even providing electricity for whole towns.
2. Wind power
Wind power is another popular source of renewable energy. Wind turbines are used to create electricity. Often found inland and off shore to make the most of the weather, wind turbines are able to produce more electricity as the wind speed increases. China perhaps surprisingly has the 5th largest wind power installation in the world.
3. Water Power
Water power has been used for hundreds of years, and can vary from a relatively simple waterwheel which powered mills in the past, to modern hydroelectric dams. Tidal and wave power are popular forms of producing electricity by renewable energy.
4. Geothermal Energy
Geothermal energy is produced from naturally occurring steam in the earth's crust, which can then be used to drive a turbine. Geothermal energy is popular in New Zealand, Italy and Iceland where the heat stored beneath the surface of the earth can be easily accessed.
5. Biomass
Biomass uses organic matter such as food waste, animal waste, waste wood and forestry wood, or crops grown especially to be used as fuel. Biomass renewable energy, although not carbon neutral, is a big improvement and a help to the environment. Biomass also helps to reduce the amount of landfill, as so much of what would be buried can be used to generate heat and electricity.
As the demand for fossil fuel alternatives increases, renewable energy will become more popular and the technologies required will improve and become more cost effective. This will lead to cheaper prices and more countries and more people will be able to utilise renewable energy as part of their everyday lives. Are you doing your bit?
Biomass Engineering is a world leader in biomass installations, and can advise and help on all aspects of Biomass. Find out more about how Renewable Energy and biomass can be used in your industry.
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