There are several sources of energy on our planet that can be considered renewable. These alternative energy sources provide cleaner energy that helps to decrease the effects of pollution in the atmosphere. Because they do not deplete any resources while generating energy, they are considered renewable resources. Below are some of the top alternative energy sources.

Solar Power

Solar power might be the most popular alternative energy source today, using photovoltaic solar power that harnesses the sun’s energy in order to generate electricity. It is the fastest growing energy source in the world, and new technology is still being developed to make the process more efficient.

Solar cells are being designed to be more effective, portable, and easy to install. In the past, PV was utilized to power small devices such as calculators. Now, it is being used in large scale solar farms that can generate several megawatts of power. In recent years, solar installations have been increasing in residential areas, due to incentives offered by the government, along with the simple act of promoting green energy.

Wind Power

With the use of wind turbines, wind power can be converted into electricity. Large-scale wind farms also help provide power to isolated areas that are off the grid. There are even residential units that are capable of providing electricity to the entire house.

Wind farms that are installed on agricultural lands have the lowest environmental impacts. At present, around 1.5 percent of the world’s electricity is produced through wind power, but the usage rate is still rising quickly. Europe leads the world in the development of offshore wind power, which could solve the problem about the limitations for suitable locations on land.

Geothermal

Geothermal energy is an efficient way of extracting renewable energy from the earth via natural processes. Small-scale geothermal installations can provide enough heat for an entire house, with large scale projects able to generate energy through a geothermal power plant.

For ages, geothermal power has been used for space heating and baths. At present, it is also being utilized to provide electricity. However, not every location can use geothermal power, seeing as the specific area must be near tectonic plate boundaries. Beneficially, geothermal power doesn’t need any fuel and is immune to the rising fuel costs.

Hydroelectricity

Hydroelectricity is generated through hydro-power. It is one of the most commonly used forms of alternative energy sources. Once a hydroelectric plant is constructed, it produces no direct waste. Small scale hydro-power systems are used in remote areas where other power sources are not located.