Renewable energy comes from naturally occurring and self-replenishing sources. Unlike fossil fuels, most sources of renewable energy will not run out and do not release harmful greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere.
The most common sources of renewable energy are:
Wind
Energy is generated when the wind rotates turbine blades. The kinetic energy of the spinning blades is converted into electric energy by a generator.
Solar
Energy is generated by capturing sunlight. Photovoltaic cells in solar panels absorb sunlight creating an electrical charge.
Hydro
Evolving from one of the oldest technologies dating back over two thousand years, hydro harnesses the natural flow of moving water to generate electricity as flowing water turns turbine blades.
Bio-fuel
Bio-fuel is produced from biomass, organic material from plant or animals. The two most common types of biofuel today are ethanol and biodiesel. They can be used in place of traditional fuel types in engines that have been adapted or customised, and have fewer harmful emissions.
Geothermal
Heat within the subsurface of the earth can be used directly for heating and cooling, or steam can be used to power a turbine to generate electricity.
The renewable energy sector also covers the range of infrastructure and support services that facilitate the capture and distribution of renewable energy. From the component parts used in the development of new renewable energy plants, to battery storage technology.
Battery storage
Batteries enable energy storage from renewables to be stored and then released when needed. These batteries are much bigger and more sophisticated than those used in most household appliances. Intelligent battery software uses algorithms to coordinate energy production and computerised control systems to decide when to keep the energy to provide reserves or release it to the grid.