Five Best Alternative Energy Sources

Fossil fuels including oil, petroleum products, coal, and the like are traditional forms of energy in the United State and many other parts of the world. But these energy sources are limited and nowadays, they tend to run out and we can not reproduce them. Moreover, the consumption of these energy sources such as coal and petroleum has taken a great part in polluting the environment of our planet. This leads to many consequences like global warming, rising incidence of asthma, and rising serious diseases. As a result, alternative energy sources are adopted as a solution for this problem. There are many alternatives to fossil fuels, but here are four best alternative energy sources which are always evaluated practical and valuable.

1. Nuclear Power

This power is the potential alternative energy source to fossil fuel because it generates huge amount of electricity. Over 14 percent of the global electricity in 2007 came from nuclear power plants. However, this kind of energy has certain inherent factors and risks that can not be ignored, up to now it is still a debatable option. This is because of past issues associated with nuclear waste and this mode has terrible destruction. The fear of misuse of related technology and materials is too real in terrorism-racked world today to be ignored altogether. If we do not use it carefully and under very strict plan, it can turn our planet into cinders.

2. Hydroelectric Power

Energy derived from water is known as hydroelectricity. This type of energy is widely used in many parts of the United States. Electricity is generated by dams when high water pressure flows through turbines and causes them to spin. Hydroelectricity is among the oldest and most widely used forms of alternative energy sources. We can continue increase hydroelectric power for a long time because only a small portion of the dams are built for power generation. Moreover, this mode can provide 20% of power for human beings all over the world.

3. Solar Power

This natural energy source has been providing warmth for humans throughout the ages. The problem has always been in developing ways to collect and harness this energy so that it can be used efficiently long after the sun has gone down. Solar panels are used to collect sunlight and turn it into usable electricity. Unfortunately, typical solar panels today are only able to convert a little over 15% of the sunlight energy into electrical power. Good progress continues to be made, though, making this one of the most promising forms of alternative energy available today.

4. Wind Power

Wind power is an alternative energy source which is not expensive, easy to operate and friendly with the environment. Wind power is generate by wind turbines or windmills. You can completely make wind power if you set up windmills at the location with intense wind. Windmills are easy to set and the force of wind makes them to move, and then electricity is generated. However, wind is never punctual, so it seems to be unreliable option.

5. Tidal Energy for Coastal Areas

The naturally occurring tides in the coastal areas are a clean, renewable and cost-effective form of alternative energy. This mode employs the rise and ebb of tides that occur owing to interplay between the gravitational forces of the sun, earth and moon. Since tides are not dependent on the weather, their motions can be predicted with a fair degree of accuracy. The motion of the tidal waves is employed to firstly fill reservoirs of water. The water is then released through turbines that generate electricity.

All of us know that nothing is forever and fossil fuels are the same. We can not depend on this kind of energy too much and too long although is very important because it can be limited and even run out. Alternative energy sources are necessary to develop so that our country can have more approach for power production. These five alternative energy sources are just a few of many alternatives to fossil fuels.

The author enjoys writing and researching topics that are related to a healthy and natural lifestyle. Current areas of interest include electric generator, natural and alternative energy, gardening and living green.