Renewable energy is energy derived from natural sources such as the sun, wind and water. The energy is renewed by natural means in other words it replenishes its self. Energy is used by everyone and is being used in record amounts. Fossil fuels like coal and oil were made millions of years in the past. Fossil fuels are not renewable or not renewable in anyone’s lifetime.
Solar energy is the harnessing of the sun to generate electricity. Direct solar energy can heat water to produce steam that can be used as energy. Turbines can be rotated by the force of wind, water or steam. Turbines through a series of gears provide power to electricity producing generators. Renewable energy sources do not produce anywhere near the atmospheric pollution as fossils fuels.
The byproduct of fossil fuel consumption is carbon emissions. Carbon emissions create air pollution that creates a multitude of problems within the environment. Bio fuels are another energy alternative. Bio fuels can be recycled cooking oil or fuel made from grains or grasses. Ethanol is fermented corn and certain types of grains. Bio fuels are renewable in the sense that corn and grains can be grown. There is some debate on using a food source as a source of energy. The costs for food items will go up as the demand for bio fuels increase.
Individuals can start today conserving energy and incorporating renewable energy into their homes and businesses. The world may find out to late that many parts of the environment may not be renewable.