Renewable energy is energy that is collected from renewable resources that are naturally replenished on a human timescale. There are five main forms of sustainable energy: hydropower, wind power, solar energy, and geothermal energy. These are linked to the grid or stand-alone systems and are being harnessed for electricity production. As more and more countries become aware of the need for cleaner sources of energy, renewable are becoming an increasingly important part of our energy future. If you are considering starting a sustainability energy company, understand the following forms first.
Hydropower:
Hydropower is one of the most dominant forms of sustainable energy. It is a method of using the movement of water to produce electricity. The most recognizable form of hydropower dams, but there are also several other forms of water-based power generation. It generates electricity in almost any location and is the most widely used of all sustainable energy sources.
Geothermal energy:
Geothermal energy is a method of harnessing heat from below the surface of the Earth. It can be extracted and used for industrial purposes, but it is also the source of electricity for many nations. It is a relatively inexpensive and environmentally friendly form of energy. In some cases, the heat is produced from underground sources; in others, it is generated from the planet’s core.
Wind:
The wind is another type of renewable energy that has been utilized for millennia. Windmills evolved from the ancient practice of pumping water. Today, wind turbines can be installed on land or at sea. In recent years, wind capacity has increased greatly in the world. It can supply electricity without carbon emissions but can be expensive to install.
Solar energy:
Solar energy is a form of clean energy that can meet much of our needs for heat below 60oC. It can be utilized in utility-scale plants and provide electricity directly from the sun. It can also be harnessed in domestic hot water units, salt production, and other applications. It is becoming more and more affordable to use and is gaining popularity with utility companies.
Bioenergy:
Bioenergy is a variety of biological materials that can be used for energy. It is particularly popular in countries with large waste and agriculture sectors. This energy has many uses, including powering vehicles, providing energy to homes, and heating buildings.