Alternative Energy Sources

Conventional sources of energy are getting depleted fast, which leads to a need for renewable energy sources. There are quite a few promising sources that can be considered.

The term "alternative energy" can refer to any energy source that doesn't burn any fuel or involve the splitting of atoms. Because of the pollution caused by our standard energy supplies, there's a growing interest in finding good alternative energy sources. Hopefully, this doesn't stop at wishful thinking.

Renewable energy sources, such as solar power, geothermal energy, wind power, tidal power, and hydroelectric power, are being seen as possible replacements for our conventional and less clean energy sources. Technology is still being researched and developed, to fully maximize their efficiency.

Solar Power

Among the alternative energy sources in use today, solar energy is possibly the most well known, especially in places where the sun is always shining. The Earth receives a considerably amount of solar energy on a daily basis, but only a small percentage of it is put to good use. It is used to power heating systems for homes and businesses, to run cars, and to operate space satellites. And as research advances, the future looks bright for solar energy.

Geothermal Energy

Geothermal Energy is produced by the internal heat of the Earth, which could be used to generate steam to run a steam turbine. The turbine would then generate electricity. It could provide supplementary power even if not functioning as the primary source.

Wind Power

Wind power is one of the cleanest forms of energy production, able to generate electricity without harmful byproducts. The disadvantage is that its use greatly depends on the weather conditions in a particular area.

Hydroelectric Energy

Tidal and hydroelectric power share the same basic principles in how they generate electricity. They utilize the force of the water's movement, and convert it into electric power. In hydroelectric plants, water is usually stored behind dams. As soon as the water has been released at a high pressure, it is used to turn the turbine blades below, which are then used to generate electricity.

As technology advances, we become increasingly more capable of harnessing the full potential of our clean and renewable energy sources. It is vital that we continue this research and development, and eventually put an end to the use of fossil fuels or other polluting elements, with their harmful effects on the environment.