Energy Resources and the Challenges of Each

Wind energy is a system of turbines and blades that turn when the wind blows, which causes the generators attached to the turbines to send electricity through cables to utility stations. The challenges of this type of energy are few. First of all, the energy produced from wind is sporadic and unreliable because the amount and direction of the wind is variable. Another problem is that flying animals and insects can be harmed from the massive turning blades.

Solar power is the use of solar panels or plates which capture sunlight. The sunlight is then transferred to a fluid inside the panel which is pumped into a heat exchanger, cement walls, or special batteries, which are then used for heating water, houses, or converted into usable electricity. The challenge of this energy is the amount of panels and the space needed in order to produce enough electricity to supply the entire population.

Biomass fermentation is the conversion of waste, just as tree shavings and left over stems from crops, as well as sewage wastes, into usable energy through conversions into liquid fuels or gases. The problems are that agricultural land would have to be converted over to plants, and soil fertility is affected.

Hydropower is the most efficient form of alternative energy. The water flows through and turns a turbine, which starts a generator that turns the motion into electricity. The problem of this energy is the impact that it has on the surrounding land and ecosystems, including human dwellings.

Nonrenewable energy sources have challenges as well. They all cause pollution to the environment when used. Another challenge is that supplies will run out sooner or later, and these minerals can not be man-made. The final challenge that they have in common is the harm to land, and the surrounding ecosystems, caused when mining for the required minerals.