The world uses a variety of different sources of energy. In 2018, fossil fuels, like gas, oil and coal, were responsible for over 81 percent of the energy consumed. Renewable energy sources, such as solar power, wind power hydroelectricity and biomass, make up for 14 percent. Nuclear energy is responsible for another 5%. Different countries have different sources of energy to meet environmental and economic requirements.
Nature’s energy can be found in a variety of forms including sun, wind waves, and ocean. These sources of energy can be transformed into more practical energy forms, such as electricity or heat, when they are harnessed. When those energies are used up, they become non-renewable energy sources.
The environment is harmed by a variety of fossil fuels in addition to other sources of energy that are not renewable. For instance mining for oil may degrade the world’s forests. Hydraulic fracturing (fracking) can trigger earthquakes and water pollution. Carbon dioxide is released when coal is burnt which contributes to global warming.
Fortunately, the majority of the most promising sources of energy are sustainable and renewable. Hydropower, wind and solar for instance, could produce electricity without having to search for fresh supplies.
Tidal and Wave Power are the other renewable energy sources that are gaining popularity. In order to be utilized at a large-scale, these technologies require effective distribution networks. They need to be constructed, which requires the use of non-renewable energy sources. These sources are not able to fulfill the majority of our energy requirements. It is important to keep in mind that prices for renewable energy equipment have come down drastically over the last few years, and their efficiency is growing rapidly.