A Consumer’s Guide to Alternative Energy Sources

According to the United States Energy Information Administration, renewable or alternative energy sources make up 20% of electricity generation. As we move forward in the technological revolution, fossil fuels may become obsolete.

Green energy and a sustainable energy supply are on the minds of most Americans these days. Our global climate crisis accelerates at a rapid rate, and we all want to do our part.

Do you know about the renewable energy options available to you? Read on to learn more.

Wind Energy

42% of new American electricity generator capacity in 2020 came from wind. The wind is easy to harness and very clean.

Turbines, some as tall as 400 feet, harness wind energy. The wind spins the turbines, thus creating kinetic energy. This kinetic energy passes through a generator that transforms it into electricity.

Hydroelectric Energy

People used water power for centuries. Even before electricity, water generated physical power for grist mills and other manufacturing. Hydroelectric energy provided much of the U.S. electricity during the first half of the 20th century.

Hydro plants build dams along rivers to harness the natural energy of their currents. These dams direct the water to turbines that spin and transfer it through a generator.

Solar Panels

You might not have access to a wind farm, a river, or a geothermal hot spot at your house. You do, however, have access to the sun. Solar power is a clean, renewable energy source that’s only getting cheaper for consumers as technology advances.

After an initial investment, rooftop solar panels will save you a lot of money on your energy bills. They’ll also help cut your carbon footprint. The United States Government even offers tax rebates to reduce the cost of your investment and encourage you to transfer to solar power.

Are you still not convinced? Check out this article: blueravensolar.com/blog/are-solar-panels-worth-it/

Geothermal Power

Geothermal power is renewable energy that comes from the heat produced below the earth’s surface. This heat can include volcanic activity or geysers, but harnessing that energy involves a Geothermal Power Plant.

Constructed near or on natural hot areas, these powerplants drill into the rock to release steam heat. This steam heat spins turbines to create the kinetic energy necessary to convert into electricity.

This production is a renewable form of energy because the steam doesn’t escape into the atmosphere. The powerplants trap it, cool it until it’s a liquid, then place it back into the ground to use again.

Save the Earth and Your Money With Alternative Energy Sources

We live in dangerous days, given the number of extreme weather emergencies. Many more people than ever acknowledge human involvement in climate change and now want to do their part to sustain our home planet.

With today’s technology, fossil fuel use and carbon consumption may become a thing of the past. These alternative energy sources like solar and wind can help save our planet and save you money.

Do you need more renewable energy news? Check out the rest of our page.