Renewable Energy Sources

So, as mentioned before, I’d like to talk about methods available to reduce our use of fossil fuels energy sources such as coal and gas. They are wind, water, solar and geothermal energy. I’ll briefly talk about each.

I have seen wind farms in the hills of Livermore, CA, and what a beautiful sight it is; hundreds if not thousands of windmills creating energy for the community as their white blades turn. New wind parks on and off shore are in the planning stages worldwide.
This is a renewable energy source which does not contribute to greenhouse gases (carbon dioxide and methane).

Hydro-electric power, or water power, is used by creating dams or using tidal flows. However, the bigger issue is with the environment in developed nations and what other factors would be affected. It is recommended for small scale operations such as small farms, businesses, or homes.

We have all seen solar panels on house roofs in our area, and if you haven’t, start looking! There are a few brave folks in South Jersey who have made the jump. Special windows help trap heat in the house while the solar energy is stored in a grid system while waiting to be used. Yes, the winter months may be different due to the suns positioning, and the solar paneling need to be free of snow build up, but it works!

Geothermal energy is from the earth’s core, and can be used as heating or for electricity. It’s created by pumping oil or water into the Earth, then after it evaporates the hot gases that vent out run turbines to electric generators. Complex, yes, and if oil is used it doesn’t seem environmentally right. But on a small scale, it can be used to hear buildings. Also, certain locations cool down, meaning that they may dry up, so operations would have to be moved. It doesn’t sound like a renewable energy source if the heat at the core gets used up.

Sources:
Renewable fuel sources link from Robin Nixon’s blog, (1983-2007)