Renewable energy relies on natural sources that are constantly replenished, making them a sustainable and inexhaustible source of power. Unlike fossil fuels, which contribute to pollution and climate change, renewable energy sources produce power without emitting greenhouse gases. This kind of energy includes solar, wind, bioenergy, hydropower and geothermal energy.
Solar energy is a popular form of renewable electricity, with panels lining the roofs of many homes and buildings. These solar cells convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic (PV) technology. Solar PV cells require very little maintenance and are easy to install, with a potential lifetime of more than 30 years.
Wind energy started being harnessed for power more than 7,000 years ago and is one of the most prominent forms of renewable electricity today. It provides over 9% of the United States’ energy consumption. Unlike coal, wind produces no CO2 emissions during its operation and requires less infrastructure than other traditional fossil-fuel powered plants. However, wind turbines do cause a significant number of bird and bat deaths, though engineers are working to make them safer for wildlife.
Bioenergy, also known as biomass energy, uses the stored thermal or kinetic energy of organic materials like wood, agricultural waste, animal dung and human waste to generate electricity or heat for cooking and heating. Biomass can be burned directly to produce electricity or used in combined cycle gas turbines for larger electricity generation plants. It is a clean, affordable and renewable source of energy but does not offer the same level of stability as wind or solar.
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