Introduction To Alternative Energy Resources
The question of how to use energy for the constructive use of mankind with the least cost, economically and environmentally, is the greatest conundrum faced by the world at large. The pollution from using fossil fuels and nuclear waste have detrimental effects on all living species on the planet as well as the planet itself , from natural disasters , ozone depletion and diseases to smog and wildlife extinction. This has led scientists to come up with alternative methods of harnessing energy to minimize the debilitating effects of traditional energy sources on the environment.
Solar power
Solar energy is the use of energy from the Sun – it is the conversion of sunlight into electricity. This can be done by a variety of methods such as photovoltaic. Solar heaters can heat water tanks, swimming pools and water pumps for agricultural purposes. Technology has harnessed solar power for a variety of other uses as well, from metal smelting and solar cookers, to industrial chemical production, domestic electricity generation and vehicle fueling.
Tidal power
Tidal power is a kind of hydropower where the energy produced by tides is converted into electricity and other forms of power. Though not in wide use, tidal power has great potential – as tides are a result of gravitational forces and the rotation of the Earth, tidal power is virtually unlimited.
Wind power
Wind energy is renewable and doesn’t cost a thing! The kinetic energy held by wind is transformed into the form of electricity by turbines. Using windmills, wind power is converted directly into energy for agricultural purposes such as grain grinding and water pumping.
Hydroelectricity
A popular source of energy, particularly in countries with a tropical climate, hydroelectricity is the energy produced by using the gravitational force of water falling from a height or simply moving from one place to another. It is also the most widely used alternative energy source. No dangerous substances are emitted by hydroelectric plants. Energy plants powered by hydroelectricity produce far lower levels of greenhouse gases than traditional fossil fuel powered energy plants. Though the dam construction and maintenance is not considered environmentally and economically viable enough to be considered for widespread use by some, the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages.
Nuclear power
Reactions like nuclear fission create energy from nuclear power gathered by technology. Nuclear reactors produce steam energy through the heating of water and it is then converted into electricity or the power of thrust. Among the many current uses of nuclear power is powering ships and other naval vessels.
Geothermal power
Geothermal power is generated by the heat that is accumulated underground. Geothermal power plants can work 24 hours a day. From an economical standpoint, this type of energy is highly cost effective compared to the ever fluctuating prices of fossil fuels. A large geothermal plant can even power a whole city, however smaller versions can also be built to power up building structures and villages. Geothermal plants are sustainable and do not depend on weather patterns and do not emit harmful substances into the atmosphere.
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