Renewable energy is increasingly becoming a popular energy source globally. In the US, renewable energy sources account for about 17% of the net electricity consumption. Hydropower sources account for 7%, while wind power represents about 6.6%.
However, the fastest growing renewable energy source is solar. Experts forecast that solar energy consumption will rise from 11% (2017) to 48% by the turn of 2050. What’s more, the federal government subsidizes solar panel installations through the Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC).
These are just sneak peek statistics into the forms of renewable energy. But what are the renewable energy advantages?
How are these sources more efficient than non-renewable alternatives? Here is a complete renewable energy guide.
1. Solar Energy
Some of the renewal energy advantages include eco-friendliness and ready availability. Solar energy scores pretty well on these two points. Moreover, the technology behind harnessing solar energy, solar photovoltaic (PV), has a low-carbon footprint.
As noted, solar energy adoption is growing widely in homes and industrial applications. As the scale of adoption widens, the costs of generating electricity from solar energy also reduce. Seek professional consultation today to find out how much it will cost you to install solar panels.
2. Wind Energy
Wind is a great renewable energy source for industrial plants that want to reduce their emissions. Electricity generation through wind energy relies on kinetic energy. Turbines rotate in the wind’s direction to produce this energy and convert it into electric current.
The renewable energy benefits of solar include reliability and diversity. For instance, electricity plants can install window turbines either onshore or offshore. In the latter options, companies can anchor wind turbines on the ocean floor or floating structures.
3. Ocean Forms of Renewable Energy
There are two ocean renewable energy types—thermal and mechanical. Thermal renewable energy from ocean sources relies on the rising temperatures of water surfaces to generate electricity. On the other end, mechanical energy comes from tide ebbs and flows.
Unlike other forms of renewable energy sources, wave energy from the ocean is quite predictable. Thus, electric companies can estimate their output and ensure consistency in the supply lines. Moreover, it’s also abundant and easy to harness.
4. Biomass Energy
Biomass energy represents plants and animal materials. The renewable energy types in this category can be biomass, wood, and animal/agricultural waste.
Wood energy is out-phasing coal-fired power plants. Experts see it as the best renewable energy alternative to coal.
Also, biomass sources from agricultural and animal waste may not get depleted as opposed to fossil fuels.
5. Hydro Energy
Hydro energy is one of the most advanced forms of renewable energy. It also accounts for the greatest share globally. Hydro energy electricity generation is possible through harnessing the gravitational force of high-speed flowing water.
There are four types of hydro energy technologies—tidal, run-off-the-river, dams, and pumped storage. Although harnessing electric power from hydro energy emits fewer greenhouse gases, initial investment costs are high.
Renewable Energy Sources Are Safer for the Planet
As a typical consumer, you have many options from these forms of renewable energy. Choose one and make a positive impact on the environment. By going green, we will address the dangers posed by climate change and the rising earth temperatures.
Find other articles on this site with more resources on renewable energy benefits.
