Renewable energy gives people the option to use low-cost and clean energy, which is also environment-friendly. This kind of energy comes from sources that won’t deplete or continuously replenish through time.
Some renewable energy samples include biomass, hydropower, geothermal power, wind power, and solar energy. Most of these energy sources come from the sun directly or indirectly, while the other kinds are derived from the moon’s gravitational pull or the earth’s heat.
There are energy sources, such as biomass, which are replenished within a person’s lifespan. There are also virtually limitless energy sources, such as wind and solar power. While renewables can be an unlimited power source, the energy can be intermittent, so it is essential to use energy storage.
The main difference between renewable and non-renewable is that the latter regenerate slower than they are depleted. Some samples include gas, oil, and coal.
Renewable energy is often used interchangeably with clean energy, but there are differences between the two:
- Clean energy is any energy positive or net neutral in terms of environmental impact and pollution. Many of the renewable energy types fall under the category.
- Renewable energy comes from renewable sources. They are often environment-friendly, but certain types can cause harm to the environment, such as hydropower.