Do You Know the Uses of These 3 Renewable Energy Options?

All around the world people are utilizing renewable energy options in order to do their part in energy conservation. But how are these renewable energy sources actually used? This article is going to discuss a few of the most common uses of the most common renewable energy sources in use today.

Geothermal: Geothermal energy is derived from the heat of the earth. This heat can be sourced close to the surface or even from reservoirs of hot water miles beneath the surface. This energy is harvested on a large scale by geothermal power plants, which are becoming far more popular with each passing year. However, for smaller buildings, a geothermal heat pump may be used to heat the building and even help keep it cool using the earth's natural energy.

Geothermal energy is also being used to heat water at fish farms, aid with a variety of industrial processes, help to run greenhouses and grow plants, or simply heat commercial buildings and reduce energy use.

Ocean Power: The ocean is able to produce two types of sustainable energy, mechanical energy from the motion of the waves and thermal energy from the sun's heat. Systems that rely on warm water temperatures can easily convert ocean thermal energy into electricity. And ocean mechanical energy utilizes the tides caused by the rotation of the earth and gravity.

Unfortunately, use of ocean energy is limited by geography and regulatory guidelines. However, cold water from the ocean can be used to keep buildings cool and areas near the ocean can utilize the ocean energy for energy needs and power generation.

Hydrogen: Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe but does not actually occur naturally as a gas on earth. However, this element can be found in organic compounds and water. Additionally, hydrogen may also be produced under certain circumstances by some bacteria or algae. Fortunately, this element is high in energy but produces little pollution when burned. But until costs come down and the durability of using hydrogen improves, there will be little commercialization.

Hydrogen is commonly used to refine petroleum, produce fertilizer, treat metals, and process foods. It can also reduce energy costs when it powers marine vessels and remote buildings. Car companies are also experimenting with hydrogen fuel cells, which emit water vapor instead of harmful greenhouse gases, and the first U.S. hydrogen fueling stations are currently being tested in California.

Over half of renewable energy in the U.S. is used for producing electricity, and around 13% of all electricity generation in the U.S. came from renewable energy options in 2015. While this is certainly a great start, more and more people are trying to figure out ways to utilize more renewable energy options. Using renewable energy options can not only save people money on energy costs, but it's better for the planet too.

3 Reasons to Invest in Clean Energy

Did you know electricity is one of the main causes of air pollution in the U.S.? Much of the electricity in the U.S. is made from non-renewable sources like coal. On the other hand, more people are choosing to invest work with a utility company to in clean energy. Clean energy is pollution-free and produced from renewable energy sources. These sources are virtually inexhaustible and can include things like the sun, water, and wind. If you've been considering investing in clean energy but aren't quite sure, this article is going to discuss some of the undeniable benefits of clean energy.

Environmental Benefits

Clean energy doesn't emit harmful pollutants like carbon dioxide or sulfur dioxide. Because of that, the air, water, and soil aren't affected by these pollutants. Additionally, because clean energy is made from unlimited renewable resources, it doesn't damage the land like fossil-fuel extraction does. Furthermore, many forms of sustainable energy use little to no water and other natural resources, which in turn helps preserve the environment for future generations.

Health Benefits

All of those harmful pollutants that dirty energy emits can have a severe impact on public health. Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide can trigger asthma attacks and can increase the risk of respiratory infections. Additionally, particulate matter, also called soot, can be especially harmful to those who suffer from asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, and heart disease. And furthermore, when mercury is ingested, it can cause permanent damage to the liver and central nervous system and has also been known to cause birth defects.

Economic Benefits

Overall, green energy is supporting a homegrown energy source, which in turn is helping to secure America's energy future. Additionally, clean energy is creating employment opportunities in the U.S. Whether it's working on implementing renewable energy in buildings or working for a utility company to help provide customers with green energy, more and more jobs are being created every day. It also helps bring development to rural areas because renewable facilities often choose these areas for the open space and resource potential.

The U.S. is slowly but surely making its way to going green. In fact, about 10% of energy consumption in 2015 was from renewable energy sources. However, you can do your part by investing in clean energy with your utility company and help create a greener future for everybody.