5 Dec 2024
Long before conventional energy sources, like nuclear and fossil fuels, renewable energy was the only choice. These renewable resources are more significant than ever due to climate change and global warming. Discover how renewable energy sources have evolved over the years and learn their impact on your home, business and planet.
Renewable energy comes from natural sources that emit less greenhouse gases. Often referred to as clean energy, its environmental impact is better than nonrenewable sources around us.
An energy source can be considered renewable when it's naturally replenishable within a shorter time frame. This sustainable ability to replenish itself at a higher rate allows a faster, cleaner energy cycle without harming the environment.
It's easy to define renewable energy with its key features, such as:
From ancient waterwheels to modern solar power, the history of renewable sources of energy has significantly progressed. Let's examine the evolution of renewable energy over the years.
Ancient civilizations relied on natural resources to produce energy. They used waterwheels and windmills to help with daily tasks, from irrigating crops to grinding grains. The Industrial Revolution signaled the decline of renewable energy and the rise of fossil fuels.
The environmental movement contributed to the resurgence of renewable energy in the 20th century. With many industries seeing the negative impact of fossil fuels and other nonrenewable energy, renewable resources rose to impressive commercial-scale viability. Solar and wind power are the major players.
Today's renewable energy sector is growing with diverse technologies. In the U.S., renewable energy accounts for more than 20% of the total energy source.
Today, we have multiple ways to harness our natural resources for energy. Discover the different renewable energy sources that can replace traditional and harmful resources.
Solar energy relies on sunlight to produce electricity. It's a natural alternative that uses photovoltaic panels or solar thermal systems. Because of its accessibility, sunlight has become one of the most significant renewable energy sources. The first known solar collector cell was recognized in 1767. Solar energy gained more traction in 1954 with the invention of the solar cell design used in many modern panels.
Harnessing the power of the moving mind has long been used for electricity generation. In 1887, electrical engineer James Blyth built the first wind turbine, which led to further innovations in wind energy technology. It achieved commercial success in the late 19th century, specifically in Denmark and the United States, two of the pioneers in the wind turbine industry.
Hydroelectric power dates back many centuries. It's one of the oldest energy sources, once used by ancient Greeks to power waterwheels and ground wheat into flour. Hydropower became prominent by the late 1800s after the invention of water turbine technology. Now, it accounts for almost half of the renewable energy sector.
Geothermal and biomass energy take a significant portion of energy demand in some countries. Geothermal energy uses the heat within the Earth, while bioenergy stems from living organisms called biomass. These alternative renewable energy sources continue to gain popularity, diversifying the global energy sector.
Switching to renewable energy is an important step toward a cleaner planet and a sustainable future. This change allows us to embrace natural resources and combat environmental challenges while contributing to a better economy.
Greenhouse emissions and global warming are a significant threat to the planet. Here's how renewable energy positively impacts the environment and supports ecology balance:
Your shift to renewable energy adds value to the economy in many ways, including:
The growing interest in renewable energy opens more global initiatives for innovations. Renewable energy is expected to diversify, with solar energy becoming cheaper and onshore wind energy expanding.
Be part of a sustainable and safer future. At Northeastern Power, we help you seamlessly transition to renewable energy. Contact us today to achieve your sustainable development needs.
