Sources of Renewable Energy
September 12, 2011 
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Numerous countries all over the globe are dependent on non-renewable energy resources like fossil fuels and nuclear power. Between the two, the former is more widely used as the latter involves too many risks to the environment and to mankind. Fossil fuels such as coal, natural gas and petroleum, and nuclear power are energy resources that would eventually deplete over a period of time. In addition to that, they emit by-products that cause environmental pollution and greenhouse effects which are major contributing factors of climate change.
Counterpart of non-renewable energy resources are the renewable ones such as solar, wind, biomass, hydrogen, geothermal, hydropower and ocean energy resources. Renewable energy cause very minimal negative impact to Mature Nature and to human race, and they are constantly replenished so they will never dwindle.
Solar Energy
Among the 7 renewable energy resources, solar energy has the most potent source of energy and that is the sun. Electricity converted from solar energy can be utilized in homes, offices and even in huge manufacturing plants. Majority of other renewable energy types are derived from the electromagnetic radiations emitted by the sun. For instance, the sun plays a major role in the growth of trees and other fauna which are utilized for biomass energy, it is also an essential component in the production of wind which is necessary for wind energy, and responsible for the evaporation and precipitation cycle needed for hydropower.
Wind Energy
The rise of warm air and the downward direction of cooler air create winds. In areas where wind blows are constantly strong, wind turbines are utilized to generate electricity.
Biomass Energy
This energy source has been used for centuries and that began when man started burning wood to prepare meals and to acquire warmth during cold winter months. Wood is the most widely used biomass energy source but grasses, forestry and agricultural wastes, industrial wastes, and even methane gas extracted from landfills are also utilized. This form of renewable energy can be used in powering electrical appliances and transport vehicles.
Hydrogen Energy
This energy resource is not yet well-developed in the current years but experts say that this has much potential considering that hydrogen is a naturally abundant element.
Geothermal Energy
This form of energy is drawn deep down the ground where the heat coming from the interior of the earth produces steam and hot water. It can be used to run power generators, industrial plants, and even electrical household devices.
Hydropower Energy
A powerful downstream of water such as from waterfalls can be a source of energy. The flow of water is utilized to run power water wheels necessary for the mechanical processes involved producing electrical energy. As water is captured by turbines and generators, electricity is produced.
Ocean Energy
Waves and tides produce energy and this energy can be used to create electricity by means of advanced technologies. However, this type of energy is not as cost-effective as the other forms of renewable energy resources but it still remains an imperative energy source which might be of great use in the coming years.
