Simply put, renewable energy is energy that comes from natural sources that is replenished quicker than it is used. Solar, wind and hydro energy are great examples of renewable energy as they are constantly being replenished no matter how much of them we use.
In contrast, non-renewable energy comes from sources that are not able to replenish themselves quicker than the rate at which we use them. For example, coal and gas are non-renewable sources that are likely to run out as they take millions of years to replenish.
As well as being an infinite supply source, renewable energy also generates significantly less emissions than non-renewable energy. Therefore, the transition to renewable energy is becoming ever more important as the climate crisis intensifies.
What are some of the common sources of renewable energy available to us?
Solar
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Sunlight is collected by solar panels to be converted to solar energy and, contrary to what you might believe, it can be collected even on a cloudy day.
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The cost of solar panels and solar technology has decreased in recent years making it a more accessible option for people wishing to generate their own energy.
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For more information on solar power, click here.
Wind
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Wind energy is collected by wind turbines either on land or offshore. The energy is generated by the wind moving the turbine which causes the motor inside to spin a generator.
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For more information on wind energy, click here.
Hydro
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Hydroelectricity is collected from bodies of water such as oceans and rivers. It is collected by converting the kinetic energy of water into electrical energy.It can be harnessed by using dams, reservoirs or power plants among other sources.
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For more information on hydroelectricity, click here.
How can we transition from non-renewable energy to renewable energy?
It is important for the environment that we transition away from non-renewable (i.e. fossil fuels) to renewable such as those mentioned above. There are many options available to Scotland due to our vast coastline as well as our wet and windy weather. The Scottish Government are hoping to provide 50% of Scotland’s energy from renewable sources by 2030 and they hope to achieve Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045. With that in mind, we need to embrace the opportunities that renewable energy can provide.
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