Earth Day 2022: What are the 6 types of renewable energy?
Earth Day, celebrated on April 22 every year, is commemorated to create awareness about the underlying environment issues and climate change all around the globe. Also known as International Mother Earth Day, it focusses on environment and climate-related concerns like pollution, overpopulation, loss of biodiversity and the depleting quality of the environment. This year’s theme for Earth Day is ‘Invest in our Planet.’ The aim is to act, innovate and implement in such a way that makes earth more habitable. As we celebrate Earth Day 2022, let us focus on the types of renewable energy that are essential for a sustainable world.
Simply put, renewable energy refers to the energy that is collected from renewable sources (something that is endless or cannot run out) such as wind, hydropower and the sun. This alternative source of energy is our way to create a sustainable world. There are 6 types of renewable energy. Let us discuss them here.
Solar energy
Solar energy refers to the energy derived from the sun. It is one the most abundant and readily available sources of energy. In fact, the amount of solar energy that reaches the entire earth’s surface in an hour is considered to be enough for an entire year’s energy requirements. However, the amount of solar energy received varies on the season, on geographical location and the time of the day. Today, solar energy is used as a major power source in both industrial and residential areas across the world.
Some of the real-life applications of solar energy are, solar cookers, solar chargers and solar heaters. A popular project that you can try at home is a DIY solar lamp.
Wind energy
Wind is another important renewable source of energy that is both free and plentiful. It is used to harness electricity from turbines or to drive generators. In fact, in wind farms (also known as wind parks), wind energy is used for various purposes such as to run wind mills and to generate electric power for surrounding areas. You can try making a DIY wind turbine at home.
Hydro energy
Hydro energy, better known as hydro power, refers to the most commercially developed renewable energy. As the name suggests, hydro energy refers to energy derived from water resources. This is done through dams, barriers and reservoirs where the flow of water is controlled. This, in turn, drives a turbine and generates electricity. In fact, hydropower is best known for its ability to store the electricity generated for future use. In modern times, hydro energy is used for both domestic (such as in water heaters) and off the grid generation of power (such as in rural water plants). You can try making a portable DIY micro hydro generator at home. It can be an interesting science project.
Tidal energy
As the name suggests, tidal energy refers to the energy derived from tidal currents that are produced twice daily (ebb tide and flow tide) and helps to drive turbine as well as generators. Although tidal power isn’t a constant source of energy, it is predictable in nature. It is used to harness electricity in and around coastal areas. Trying out a DIY tidal turbine at home can be a fun and engaging science project for youngsters.
Geothermal energy
Geothermal energy refers to the free form of energy harnessed naturally below the earth’s surface, thanks to the heat generated under the ground. It is used to heat water, make steam in domestic regions, turn on generators and turbines and produce electricity for industrial sectors. Making a DIY geothermal heat pump can be an interesting activity to try at home.
Biomass energy
Biomass energy refers to the form of clean energy derived out of plant vegetation. It serves a dual purpose, as a fuel and as a source of power. The process of generating power from biomass includes burning organic materials to harness electricity. This is considered to be one of the most energy-efficient processes. In fact, conversion of agricultural, industrial and domestic waste into solid, liquid or gas fuel, is the most sustainable and cost-effective. Biomass energy is used as a cooking fuel, for space and water heating. Try making a DIY biomass digestor at home to learn more about this kind of energy.