Of course we are partial to solar energy as the primary source of renewable energy, but there are so many options out there! Here is a breakdown of the most common types of renewable energy.
Renewable energy comes from a source that won't run out. They are natural and self-replenishing. Usually they have a low or zero-carbon footprint.
Wind
Wind is the largest producer of renewable electricity in the United States. Onshore and offshore wind farms generate electricity by spinning wind turbines. The turbines convert the energy of the blades into electric energy by turning a drive shaft and gear box, which is connected to a generator. Electricity is then converted into higher voltages and fed into the grid. Wind turbines are 89-90% recyclable, but many of the current composite blades end up in landfills. Turbines are more dependable than solar, but they do need a specific pace of wind to work properly.
Solar
Solar power generates electricity by capturing sunlight on solar panels in a joint chemical and physical reaction, known as the "photovoltaic effect" (or PV). This is one of the cleanest forms of energy because it doesn't emit greenhouse gasses and doesn't have harmful by-products. This type of energy is relatively expensive compared to traditional methods of energy production, and it has the downside of needing sunlight to operate. Areas with prolonged darkness throughout the winter would not do well with this type of energy.
Hydroelectric
Hydro power is created using the movement of flowing or falling water. Hydroelectric power plants are found at damns and generate electricity through underwater turbines that turn a generator. Hydro power also encompasses wave and tidal power, which rely on ocean forces to generate electricity at the mouths of large bodies of water. This is a very cost-effective source of renewable energy, as it is immune to erratic price fluctuations of energy commodities since it harnesses the self-renewing force of water.
Geothermal
Geothermal power uses heat from the earth to produce electricity. This is a great renewable in areas with high temperatures, as the temperature difference between hot rocks underground and surface creates an electrical current. Geothermal energy can release gasses stored under the earth's surface and has the highest upfront cost of any renewable energy. The most controversial topic concerning geothermal is hydraulic fracturing, or fracking. This could trigger earthquakes and many have concerns over damaging the earth where the power may not be naturally available.
Bioenergy
Electricity can be generated when organic matter is burned as a fuel source. These are known as biomass and include anything from plants to timber to food waste. CO2 is emitted when bioenergy is made, but these sources are renewable because they can be regrown and absorb as much CO2 as they emit.
With all of these types, which energy source is the best?
Each has their own cost, efficiencies and challenges. Wind power is the most efficient method of sustainable energy, averaging around 35% efficiency. 80-90% of wind turbine materials can be recycled, making long term investments more sustainable. Wind also has its disadvantages, such as the space needed to build and regular wind flow. As of now, wind is the overall winner if the space is available, but any opportunity to swap out renewables in your life is a win for your pocket book and for the environment!
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