Ending the Energy Crisis through Renewable Sources of Energy

Man has exploited nature to the extent of total destruction. Conventional energy sources are running dry. He is forced to look elsewhere to meet his ever-increasing energy needs. He needs sustainable sources of energy that will not be depleted. Man has therefore learned to harness effectively the free energy resources that nature has so abundantly provided for man's sustenance like the sun, the wind and the water.

29.3% of the total energy use in the world has now been met by the renewable energy resources.

Advantages of renewable energy resources

Mankind's quest has led him on a search for energy that is inexhaustible and affordable. Known also as non-conventional sources of energy this energy produce less emission, is clean, and are locally available for free.

Renewable energy sources

The concern of the world today is the harmful effects of the energy generated from fossil fuels. The burning of coal and crude oil for energy has had devastating effects on the environment. Pollution from vehicular traffic has also added to the woe. By and large most of the renewable energy sources are considered safe and non-polluting. The newly exploited renewable sources of energy include:

- Solar Energy: Energy derived from the sun directly is known as solar energy.

- Photovoltaic solar power: Power generated from sun's light through silicon module panel and not from the sun's heat.

- Wind Power: power generation through the wind force has become so viable that its growth is at an impressive 55% per annum.

- Hydroelectric power: Force of water is harnessed and tuned to electricity by turning huge turbines installed. This method has almost passed its use and is no longer viable.

- Biomass: This is a cost-effective energy generated from crop residues, bio-degradable city waste, firewood and animal dung. This has a two-pronged benefit as the city can get rid of its waste and at the same time produce necessary energy.

- Ocean tidal energy: This is a renewable source of energy generated from waves.

- Geothermal energy: Geothermal energy is derived from magma, hot water springs, natural geysers, etcRenewable energy is the best investment

Renewable non-conventional energy production is the best bet for future. It comes cheap and clean. Once the production capability is installed continuous energy is almost guaranteed. The raw material for production comes free and is inexhaustible and so production is sustainable. Renewable energy is cost-effective and supply is unlimited.

A word of caution

Although renewable energy sources are generally emission free, care should be taken in the production of the same. Energy production from bio-mass is reported to emit toxic gases like carbon-dioxide which harm the environment. Global warming and ozone depletion can be caused by these also. Indiscriminate use of energy for convenience goods that emit noxious fumes should be curbed. Eco-friendly vehicles and non-CFC emitting refrigeration units are to be promoted.

Latest on renewable energy

European Union is leading the way in clean-technology based on renewable energy sources. Other than the tested non-conventional energy sources like the solar, wind, hydroelectric and geo-thermal energy; research is being carried out in different areas like harnessing power from waves and vibrations.

FAQ's

What is the difference between renewable and non-renewable sources of energy?

With non-renewable energy the source gets exhausted. For example, coal, natural oil and wood. In the case of renewable energy the source is unlimited as long as there is sun, wind and water.