Various parts of the world are reeling under climate change. None of these countries could anticipate this sudden change and it is impacting agriculture, economy, lifestyle, and everything associated with human lives. Expert environmentalists have been emphasizing a set of guidelines to harness the potential of renewable energy as a step to hinder more damage. The reduction in carbon footprint and transition to a more sustainable future are the only possible solutions. Still, many individuals around the world are in the dark on the subject of utilizing renewable resources. Read on, and you will get a hint on the basics of the ways of using renewable energy towards a greener and safer world.
Classifying renewable resources
As the name suggests, renewable resources are the energy sources that we get naturally. We do not need to worry about replenishing them as it happens automatically. Unlike fossil fuels, which are limited and are one of the primary contributors to climate change when burned, renewable resources offer a clean and sustainable environment to safeguard the atmosphere.
Types of renewable resources
Thankfully, we have the convenience of harnessing various types of renewable resources. Here is a look at them and the way we can utilize them to good effect:
- Solar energy: By installing solar panels we can capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. Since sunlight is readily available it is one of the best forms of renewable resource that offers a clean and environmentally-friendly alternative. Presently, solar panels have become rather affordable and accessible for homeowners and business institutions.
- Wind energy: The installation of turbines can tap the kinetic energy of the wind to generate electricity. In the last few years, wind farms have been setup in large numbers both offshore and onshore which is proving to be another potent way of generating energy without leaving a carbon footprint.
- Hydroelectric energy: Hydroelectric power plants utilize the gravitational force of flowing or falling water to generate electricity through state-of-the-art turbines. Presently, dams and other systems are increasingly being considered as the best options for hydroelectric facilities.
- Geothermal energy: This type of resource harnesses the heat generated from the core of the earth. It is being used not only to generate electricity but also to provide heating and cooling solutions for buildings. For regions that have abundant active volcanic activities or have hot springs, geothermal energy resource remains the best option.
- Biomass energy: It refers to organic materials like wood, agricultural waste, and landfill gas (methane). By using advanced technologies each of these materials can be burned directly to produce heat and eventually be converted into biofuels like ethanol and biodiesel.
Widespread benefits of choosing renewable resources
By making use of each of the above-mentioned renewable resources, we can gain a wide range of benefits. Here is a list:
- Environmental benefits: As mentioned at the beginning, by making the shift to renewable resources we can reduce the dependency on fossil fuels. It will lead us to serve our purpose without polluting the environment. Thus, we can expect to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to a significant extent and regulate the impacts of climate change. Then again, renewable energy technologies have minimal carbon footprint throughout their lifecycle which makes them the most potent sources for generating energy.
- Economic benefits: Of course, the initial investment necessary for installing renewable energy systems can be expensive, but considering their long-term economic benefits they are most feasible. Over the years, renewable energy will help reduce energy bills, safeguard against rising energy costs, and also create employment opportunities in the sector of green energy. Presently, governments and organizations offer financial incentives, tax credits, and even rebates to encourage those who embrace renewable energy. In this regard, we can cite the example of a leading construction company in Australia, Osterman, who is showing the world how it is done.
- Energy independence and security: Undoubtedly, renewable sources help us to get energy independence by reducing the dependency on fossil fuels. Many countries have to import these fuels owing to the high demand. Now, they can utilize the resources available in their countries to generate energy. It indeed can boost the economy and help that country to take control of the energy requirements. As an icing on the cake, by shifting to renewable energy sources, they are also contributing to a sustainable future.
Initiating renewable energy
Well, reading thus far, it should be clear to everyone, that renewable energy sources are the best option for mankind in all regards. But, before getting started with it here are some points to consider:
- Assessing the energy requirements: One should not invest in renewable energy haphazardly. It is essential to assess the current energy consumption and locate opportunities for improvement. Thus, companies engaged in these operations can begin by conducting an audit to evaluate where and how much energy is necessary for homes and businesses. It will help in determining the amount of renewable energy necessary to meet the requirements of a specific region.
- Identifying the appropriate system: After assessing energy requirements, the next step should be to choose the most adequate energy system. The factors that are of prime importance are the location, availability of resources, budget, and energy goals. So, for instance, one can opt for solar panels wind turbines, or a combination of various renewable technologies. The procedure should be carried out under expert supervision which will provide valuable insights on the subject.
- Find incentives and rebates: Earlier, we mentioned several governments and organizations are ready to offer incentives for those who prefer to make the switch to renewable energy. So, one should research on the available programs in their region and consult with the local authorities to avail of these incentives. Ultimately, it will help them minimize their investments in renewable energy.
- Installation and maintenance: After choosing the appropriate renewable energy system the focus should be on installation. It is crucial to hire a reputable and experienced installer who can handle the installation job precisely. Under expert guidance, there isn’t any issue with safety, efficiency, and ensuring the system is at par with the current industry standards. Furthermore, it will also ensure a longer lifespan and optimum performance.
- Overcoming challenges: Despite understanding the benefits of investing in renewable energy sources, making the shift from conventional means isn’t as easy as it sounds. Any organization that desires to implement renewable energy sources instead of relying on fossil fuels has to overcome barriers like upfront costs, technological limitations, and even regulatory hurdles. Still, we feel, these barriers won’t bother us for a long period. The advancements in technology, declining costs, and support of the government via their policies can help overcome the limitations quickly.
Final words
Undoubtedly, embracing renewable energy sources can prove to be a rewarding journey. It will benefit both human lives and the environment. When we take positive steps to reduce carbon footprint, we can expect the environment to heal itself. It requires the combined effort of everyone. We should not shed responsibility thinking let the government do the needful in this aspect. As homeowners, we can play our part by installing solar panels. Likewise, business institutions having more budget can plan for taming wind energy. Communities can come forward and contribute to help others to come under the roof of renewable energy.
Some developed nations are leading the way in this regard. Feel free to search online, and you will come across the names of countries that have successfully managed to restrict the use of fossil fuels completely and rely on renewable energy resources only. Developing nations may lack the infrastructure but as they say “where there is a will there is a way”, and it is the right time to become determined and implement the necessary measures if we are to save the world from the wrath of climate change and other environmental impacts.
