Different energy sources refers to the different ways we harness and utilize energy. They include renewable and nonrenewable forms of energy. The type of energy we use is determined by many factors, including how it affects the environment and if it’s affordable and readily available.
In 2018 fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, and coal) accounted for 81 % of the energy used in the world. But these nonrenewable sources for energy can harm the environment in a variety ways: For example oil drilling can cause havoc on wildlife and communities and fracking causes water pollution as well as coal power plants emit carbon dioxide.
Renewable energy, also called green or clean energy is derived from natural and continuously replenishing resources such as sunlight as well as wind and water. It’s a great option to reduce our dependence on dirty sources of energy and to help the environment.
But renewable energy isn’t only about protecting the environment; it’s also about being reliable and cost-effective. This is why renewable energy is becoming increasingly sought-after as a way to power our homes or businesses, as well as vehicles.
The most popular renewable energy sources are solar, wind hydropower, nuclear. Solar energy makes use of technology that convert sunlight into electricity and heat. Wind energy harnesses the kinetic energy of moving air to create electricity. It is utilized in many places all over the world. Hydropower harnesses water’s force to generate electricity. And nuclear energy uses the process of atomic fission to generate electricity.