Saving the planet is a frequent theme in debates. Green energies are part of the solutions to environmental problems. Unlike fossil fuels which can run out over time, green energies are renewable. They come from various natural resources and have no devastating effects on the planet.
Article summary
The wind turbine
Solar energy
The biomass
Hydraulic energy
Geothermal energy
The wind turbine
Wind energy is produced at the rate of the power of the air. These are wind generators which transform the kinetic energy of the wind into mechanical and then electrical energy. Air is the main natural resource used to operate wind turbines. It is a 100% ecological method which remains very widespread in the field of green energies. Wind turbines are made up of masts, rotors and generally 3 blades which stir the wind. For domestic wind turbines, devices are available in small sizes. But, the largest machines are used in power plants favorable to powerful air currents . These wind farms are built both at sea and on land.
Solar energy
More accessible, it represents the most serious alternative to fossil energy. Solar energy is obtained in two ways, but from the same source which is the sun. It can be generated by a photovoltaic or thermal system . The first method uses solar panels that capture light and transform it directly into electricity. Thermal energy uses heat produced by the sun which is gradually converted into electrical energy. It is a non-polluting energy suitable for domestic use. In addition, solar parks and power plants are also installed for industrial needs.
The biomass
Also called bioenergy, it is obtained from waste and natural materials. It is often highlighted for its zero carbon footprint. The materials used in the process are all recycled. This can include wood or other plant matter, food scraps, and even animal waste . This energy, which contributes greatly to the reduction of greenhouse gases, can be used in the production of electricity, but also agrofuel.
Hydraulic energy
It is the oldest green energy. To obtain it, dams are built to exploit the flow of rivers or the height when it comes to waterfalls . Other hydraulic movements such as waves, tides or ocean currents are also exploited to produce electricity. The power of the waves is then converted into electrical energy in power stations. In the hydroelectric field , another particular method makes it possible to obtain energy. The fusion between salt water and fresh water can produce osmotic energy, also called Blue Energy. However, this technique is still not widespread.
Geothermal energy
This is a technology that uses heat contained in rocks underground to produce energy. Magma is the resource that provides a solution here in terms of renewable energy. Techniques allow hot water charged with thermal energy to circulate and rise to the surface of the earth. While this energy is often used to heat water naturally , it can also be transformed into electricity.
