The world uses a variety of different energy sources. In 2018, fossil fuels, such as oil, gas and coal, were responsible for more than 81 percent of energy consumed. Renewables, such as solar power, wind power, hydroelectricity, and biomass, account for 14 percent. Nuclear energy contributes another 5 percent. Different countries employ different types of energy sources, in order to balance economic needs with environmental concerns.
Nature’s energy comes in many forms: sun, wind, waves, and ocean. These sources of energy transform into more efficient forms of energy, like electricity or heat, once they are harnessed. When these energy visite site sources are exhausted, they are non-renewable energy sources.
Many fossil fuels, as well as some of the other nonrenewable energy sources are causing harm to the environment. For example mining for oil could take away the planet’s forests. Hydraulic fracturing (fracking) can trigger earthquakes and water pollution. The combustion of coal releases carbon dioxide, contributing to global warming.
Fortunately that many of the most promising sources of energy are renewable and sustainable. Solar, wind and hydropower can produce, for instance, electricity without the need to dig up new sources.
Other sustainable energy sources are emerging, including waves and tidal power. To be used at large scale, these sources of energy require effective distribution networks. They must be constructed and operate with the use of non-renewable energy. These sources aren’t able to fulfill the majority of our energy needs. It is important to be aware that prices for renewable energy-related equipment have fallen significantly in the past couple of years, and efficiency is increasing rapidly.