The world is changing, and it’s time to change the way we think about energy. We need to find cleaner alternatives that will be more sustainable in the long run, and renewable sources of energy are just what the doctor ordered. In this article, we’re going to cover three types of clean energy: solar power, wind power, and nuclear power.
Solar Power
Solar power is a great way to reduce your reliance on fossil fuels, and it’s becoming more and more popular each year. In fact, solar energy accounted for nearly 40% of all new electric generating capacity in the United States in 2016. There are a few different types of solar technology: photovoltaic (PV), concentrated solar thermal (CSP), and solar water heating. PV panels use sunlight to create electricity, while CSP systems use mirrors to concentrate sunlight onto a receiver, which then heats up water or oil to generate steam that powers a generator. Solar water heating can be used to heat water for homes or businesses.
Wind Power
Wind power is another great alternative to fossil fuels, and it’s also becoming more popular around the world. In fact, wind power is now one of the most cost-effective sources of electricity in many regions, including parts of Europe and America. There are two types of wind technology: horizontal axis turbines (HAWT) and vertical axis turbines (VAWT). One advantage to HAWT turbines is that they can be built taller than VAWTs, which makes them better at catching fast-moving winds high up on ridges or bluffs.
Nuclear Power
Nuclear power is another great alternative source of clean energy, though it does have its drawbacks. Nuclear fission uses uranium atoms splitting apart (not falling apart) to generate heat, which then boils water into steam that can be used to power turbines. The problem with nuclear fission is that the radioactive waste it creates is dangerous and difficult to dispose of safely.