Relying on green energy is becoming increasingly important. In fact, it could actually reduce our world’s energy needs by one-third by 2050. This energy lets us use natural resources that are replenished as part of the Earth’s life cycle. While there are many different types of green energy today, there’s 5 types that make the most impact in the environment and our day-to-day life.
Wind Power
Through this form of green energy we could produce 10 times more energy than we need. This inexpensive power is produced through wind turbines and without creating any pollutants.
Solar Power
We can depend on the sun providing us with enough green energy for billions of years into the future. Currently we’re using photovoltaic panels, solar collectors and thin-film solar sheeting to collect this energy. Once it’s collected the solar cells turn it into electricity. This is a clean source of energy because it doesn’t use a generator, which would otherwise pollute our planet.
Biomass
Using plant matter and animal waste to create electricity doesn’t need much carbon. Therefore, this type of green energy won’t really pollute our planet.
Geothermal Energy
Using a combination of heated water and steam we can run power stations. These turn the steam into electricity, which is something that California is cashing in on today. They have 40+ stations producing 5% of the state’s electricity. The Philippines, Iceland and El Salvador produce more than 25% of their power through the use of such plants.
Hydroelectric Power
This is simply the use of flowing water to move turbines. The United States Geological Survey says this provides 20% of the world’s energy needs today.
While there are advantages and disadvantages of using these green energy sources, they will truly help us protect our environment. We also never have to worry about these resources running out. This is why the government is also providing incentives for moving towards the use of green energy.
