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What Are Examples of Renewable Resources?

Jane Marsh - December 11, 2023

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Renewable resources are sustainable sources of energy. This helps the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. What makes it good? It naturally regenerates every time. This means it’s cleaner and more efficient. The world is in a fight against climate change, so it’s crucial to develop these resources. But first of all, what are examples of renewable resources?

Solar Energy

There is a conversion of sunlight into electricity. And this is via the photovoltaic effect. Sunlight hits the panels, so it generates a direct current. Next, direct electricity turns into alternating current. Businesses and homes use this conversion.

Electricity powers homes. It also reduces the electricity bill because solar power is a renewable energy source. What else? Businesses also benefit from it. Today, many commercial buildings take advantage of solar as a source of power for operations. It is a good initiative to help the planet reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Have you heard of an Island run by solar energy? Tau’s Island is a good example. Tesla has transformed the island from diesel to solar energy power. What’s even more amazing? The solar microgrid can cover almost 100% of the electricity supply.

Wind Energy

Wind turbines use aerodynamic design. So, it captures energy from the wind. How will it produce energy? The blades spin and transform the energy into electricity. The generator plays a crucial role in the conversion. How does it become efficient? It’s important to adjust the angle of the blades. This is to align with the direction of the wind.

What industry maximizes wind energy? Wind farms play an important role in this. Wind turbines are in locations that have strong winds. There must be consistent winds as well to maintain wind energy conversion. The wind is a strong renewable source of energy. And it has an enormous contribution to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

Hornsea Wind Farm is one of the most successful wind energy projects in the UK. What makes it unique? It is a huge offshore wind farm. The size? It is over 150 square miles. The power? 1.2 gigawatt powers it. It is a huge contribution to lowering the carbon emissions in the environment. 

Hydropower

Hydropower is one of the most common and efficient renewable energy resources. How does it work? There are two reservoirs placed at different heights. A pump will allow the water to move below up to the reservoir. If it reaches the limit, the reservoir will release the gathered water. Then, it will flow towards the turbines to generate electricity. 

Hydropower brings many advantages to the environment. The reduction of greenhouse emissions is one. But it also supports marine life. What’s more? There is a lower possibility of flooding along the areas.

Have you heard of China’s Three Gorges Dam? It is an interesting project. The dam is the biggest hydropower source in the world. Many enjoy the clean electricity of the dam. It also helps reduce carbon emissions. 

Geothermal Energy

The earth provides heat energy. It is through geothermal energy. How does it work? Geothermal power plants drill deep wells into hot rock layers. Because water is heated by the rock, it goes to the surface. There is now steam. It now generates electricity. How? This is done via powering turbines linked to the geothermal generators.

Geothermal power plants are efficient. Why? They are constantly producing energy. Iceland’s Hellisheidi Geothermal Power Plant is a good example. Volcanoes produce energy and supply hot water. What makes it amazing? It gathers carbon dioxide and converts it to minerals.

Embracing a Renewable Future

The earth needs healing. And through our combined efforts, it may replenish and provide a sustainable haven. So, maximizing renewable resources is a good step towards the goal. Whatever it is, solar, wind, hydropower or geothermal energy, consistency is the key to building a brighter future!

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About the author

Jane Marsh

Starting from an early age, Jane Marsh loved all animals and became a budding environmentalist. Now, Jane works as the Editor-in-Chief of Environment.co where she covers topics related to climate policy, renewable energy, the food industry, and more.