Renewable energy sources

Energy sources are materials or natural forces used to produce power. They are grouped into two main types: renewable and nonrenewable. Renewable energy sources are naturally replenished and will not run out. Nonrenewable energy sources are finite — once used, they cannot be replaced quickly.

Renewable Energy Sources

• Solar power — energy from sunlight captured by solar panels and converted into electricity.
• Wind power — wind spins the blades of turbines, which generate electricity.
• Hydropower — flowing or falling water turns turbines inside dams to produce electricity.
• Geothermal energy — heat from deep inside the Earth is used to produce steam and electricity.
• Biomass — energy from plant and animal materials (e.g. wood, crop waste).

Nonrenewable Energy Sources

• Coal — a fossil fuel burned in power plants to create steam that drives turbines.
• Natural gas — a fossil fuel burned to release heat energy used for electricity and heating.
• Oil (petroleum) — refined into fuels like gasoline and diesel; also burned for electricity.
• Nuclear fuel — uranium is split in a process called fission, releasing large amounts of energy.

Why Renewable Energy Matters

• Fossil fuels release carbon dioxide when burned, contributing to climate change.
• Renewable sources produce little or no pollution during operation.
• The supply of renewable energy is unlimited — the sun and wind will always be available.
• Many countries are switching to renewable energy to protect the environment.