Basics of Renewable Energy Sources
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Renewable energy sources are sources of energy which can be replenished on a continual basis. The energy comes in a variety of forms such as wind, sun, water, geothermal, and biomass (energy derived from certain crops).
To really understand what renewable energy is, it’s important to understand how it differs from non-renewable sources such as coal and oil. Non-renewable energy can only provide energy so long as there is a supply. Once the energy in the supply is released, it is spent. For example, when you put gas in your car and spend the gas in your tank, it does not refill itself with more gas. Also, non-renewable energy sources are often heavy polluters as they release carbon gases into the atmosphere.
In contrast, renewable energy sources have a sustained supply which replenishes itself. For example, even on cloudy days the sun still shines and heats our planet. This is called sustainability because the supply is virtually infinite and so harvesting renewable energy can be sustained over the long term.
In addition to being sustainable, renewable energy sources have a minimal impact on the environment. This means that the energy derived from these sources do not emit carbon gases and contribute to the greenhouse effect in our atmosphere. Nor do these forms of energy pose other environmental hazard such as poisoning water ways with other chemical by-products.
Other than being good for the environment, renewable energy sources are attractive solutions for many households because the non-polluting effects can work in conjunction with other environmentally friendly solutions to improve the indoor air quality of a residence. This is a major concern to households who want to maintain the health of their family members.
Another benefit of renewable energy sources is the cost savings. Because of the sustainable nature of renewable energy, there is an opportunity for cost savings over time. This means that a household’s energy costs go down as a result of not having to purchase energy from non-renewable sources. For example, if household A uses wind energy to supplement their electricity use, they purchase less electricity from the electric company than household B who does not use any renewable energy solutions.
So households who offset their energy costs with renewable sources see a savings. This is especially true when factoring the rising cost of non-renewable energy sources such as coal and oil over time. Some feel that the time it takes to see a return on the initial investment in a renewable energy solution as a deterrent to taking the initial steps to a renewable household. However, with many government incentives on the federal and state level, the costs for fitting a home with renewable energy sources have never been more affordable.
Finally, the types of renewable energy sources that are right for anyone vary greatly. That is why consulting with a professional specializing in renewable energy sources is so important. We can help you find what solutions fit your goals and budget. It’s never been a better time to contact us for a quote.
