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Energy is considered renewable when it is generated from resources that are replenished constantly and naturally. The most commonly used sources are sunlight, moving water, wind, and geothermal heat. Whether you want to help preserve the earth's non-renewable fossil fuels by using renewable, clean energy, or you live in a remote area, how do you know what type is best for you? Following is a brief overview of the five main types of renewable energy.

Solar energy is the most widely used form of alternative energy. Sunlight is converted to electricity in three main ways: through the use of photovoltaic or solar cells; by heating air that turns turbines in a solar updraft tower; and in a plant that is concentrating solar power to run a generator. The most well-known of these is the solar cell.

Obviously, being able to use solar energy is dependent on the sun and how much of it you are able to harness. You also need a large area for the solar panels, whether they are mounted on a roof, a pole, or on the ground. Solar energy can also be converted to thermal energy for heating water, as in swimming pools or hot water heaters, and to heat air inside buildings.

Wind movement is used to generate electricity when it turns the blades of a wind turbine. As the wind speed increases, the power output also increases. When the blades of a turbine move, they turn the drive shaft they are connected to, which then turns an electric generator, producing electricity.

Being in an area where the wind blows most of the time is crucial for this method to be of any use. Having backup power is also necessary for when the wind dies down.

Water power is produced by flowing water that is converted into electricity. Rivers are the most common source, and ocean currents are also used. The water is funneled through a pipeline or restricted area to build up pressure. It is then forced through a turbine and the rotational force drives a generator, producing electricity.

Where there is flowing water, as in a river or ocean current, the force of the current is the pressure needed to turn the turbine. When water is accumulated, as in a dam, the force is provided when the water is released.

Biomass is organic material, primarily from plants, that can be burned to provide heat, or produce steam for making electricity. Wood is most commonly used, but garbage, crops, and manure are used as well.

Biomass is converted into other fuels like ethanol and biodiesel, which are burned in engines to release their energy. Ethanol is in most of the gasoline we use today and biodiesel can be used in diesel engines.

Geothermal energy comes from hot liquid under the ground, like hot springs and geysers. There are two main ways this liquid is used. The hot water can be piped into buildings as heat, and geothermal plants generate electricity from the hot water or steam they take from underground.

For additional resources, please visit http://www.gosolar4home.com

Carol is very interested in different methods of alternative energy, including smaller projects almost anyone can do. Go to http://www.GoSolar4Home.com for more information on converting your home to solar energy.

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