Alternative power sources are a hot topic with the whole world looking for ways to incorporate a greener way of life into society. Every country now understands the importance of reducing environmental pollutants that are destroying the air we breathe and our fresh water supply. It’s time for consumers to take things seriously and start looking at some of the alternative power sources available.
Alternative options help to preserve the earth’s natural resources by reducing energy usage and by reducing the pollutants found in the air and water. Alternative power sources show great promise for the future but it takes time for change. It can be difficult for many people to change the way they have been doing things for years but it can help when you know what options are available and how they work. Here are the main alternative power sources available today.
Wind power uses turbines to generate and harness power created by the rotation of the blades. This power is then converted into electricity using an electrical generator that can be used to power homes and businesses. The great thing about wind power is that it does not produce any type of pollution nor does it use chemicals or fossil fuels to work.
It is a completely clean energy source that will never run out. However, the power produced is intermittent based on wind conditions. They’re not used in communities because they are large and unattractive. They can also be expensive so many consumers, who do have the land and space to use one, cannot afford to install them at this time.
Solar power is the most common type of renewable energy source available today. It’s used for everything from providing electricity to homes and businesses to powering electronic devices. This is also a clean energy source that converts the sun’s rays into electricity. The main drawback to solar power is that it is very expensive and their ability to produce power is limited based on the amount of sunshine you have.
Hydropower harnesses the energy produced by running water. This is one of the oldest forms of clean energy sources, which has been used to operate watermills and used for irrigation for many years. The problem is you have to live near a constant running water source to use hydropower.
Geothermal energy harnesses the heat energy found underneath the surface of the earth. This type of energy source is not as well known as the others and it requires drilling holes in specific areas where hot rocks are located. This releases purified steam that can be used to power generators and turbines. If done right, there are no harmful by products produced but if done wrong, it can release hazardous gases and minerals into the air.