The world relies on a variety of energy sources. In 2018 fossil fuels like gas, oil and coal, comprised over 81 percent of the energy consumed. Renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar power, hydroelectricity, and biomass, account for 14 percent. Nuclear energy contributes another 5 percent. Different countries have different sources of energy to meet the environmental and economic demands.
Energy is present in nature in many forms: sunlight and wind, waves, oceans, and more. These primary sources are transformed into more convenient energy forms, such as electricity or heat, when they are harnessed. When these energy sources are exhausted, they turn into nonrenewable energy sources.
A lot of fossil fuels and a few of the other energy sources that are not renewable can be harmful to the environment. For example, mining for oil can strip the planet’s pristine forests. Fracking (hydraulic fracture) can result in earthquakes and water pollution. Carbon dioxide is released when coal is burnt and contributes to global warming.
Fortunately, a majority of the most promising sources of energy are sustainable and renewable. Solar, wind, and hydropower can, for example, generate electricity without having to dig for new sources.
Tidal and Wave Power are the other sustainable energy sources that are emerging. To be utilized on large scale, these sources of energy require effective distribution networks. This requires the use of non-renewable energy sources to build these networks. These sources aren’t able to satisfy the majority of our energy requirements. However, it’s important to keep in mind that prices for renewable energy equipment have decreased dramatically over the past few years, and efficiency is increasing rapidly.
