Green Energy is any energy that is generated from natural resources like wind, water, and sunlight, and it usually comes from renewable energy sources. The main benefit of this energy is that it does not cause any harm to the environment through factors such as releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. There are different renewable energy sources that can generate green energy, such as wind, solar, biomass, hydroelectric power, and geothermal. Each of these technologies works differently, whether by taking the control from the sun with the solar panel or using the water glow or wind turbine to produce energy.
Why Green Energy is Future’ myths vs facts
Green energy is important for the environment as it helps in replacing the adverse effects of fossil fuels through the use of various environmentally friendly options. Since it is generated through natural resources, green energy is also often clean and renewable, which means that it does not produce any greenhouse gas and is usually readily accessible.
The United Nations states simply, “Energy is at the heart of the climate challenge-and key to the solution….We need to end our reliance on fossil fuels and invest in alternative sources of energy that are clean, accessible, affordable, sustainable, and reliable.”
Now, let’s take a look at the common green energy myth to define the facts.
Myth 1: Renewable Energy is Costly
Fact: The cost of solar and wind energy has dropped considerably a decade ago setting up the wind or solar energy need the high initial investment that makes the whole process more expensive. However, today, renewable energy has become a cost-effective energy solution. In the past 10 years, the prices of solar panels have dropped by 80% due to advances in technology, which have increased production.
Myth 2: Solar Panels do not work in Cloudy Climates
Fact: Many people think that solar panels work only in sunny and hot climates, but it is not a myth that solar systems perform effectively even in cloudy or cold climates. Even the solar panels work more effectively at cooler temperatures, as the excessive heat can affect the panel’s efficiency. Places like the UK and Germany that experience less sunshine than the tropical region still produce a high amount of electricity from solar panels.
Myth 3: Wind Turbines are Harmful to Wildlife
Fact: Modern wind turbines are environmentally friendly, while the older wind turbines involve a high noise level, but modern wind technology has progressed significantly. The new turbine designs have now incorporated the radar-based bird detection system and involve better placement strategies that have less impact on the birds. Wind energy helps in reducing air pollution and protects the wildlife and ecosystem far more than fossil fuels.
Myth 4: Renewable Energy cannot Replace Fossil Fuels Completely
Fact: There are many people who believe that fossil fuels are significant and cannot be completely replaced. However, various businesses and countries around the world are transitioning to 100% renewable energy sources. The innovation in wind, battery storage, hydrogen, and solar energy has made renewables more viable than ever. There are many countries that are planning to go carbon neutral by the year 2050 and are investing in clean energy infrastructure. The top companies like Amazon, Google, and Apple are committed to 100% renewable energy for their operations.
Myth 5: Switching towards Renewable Energy can kill jobs
Fact: There is a wide variety of jobs, including those for manufacturers, contractors, suppliers, and other professionals, that are being created as a result of the renewable energy uprising. Jobs in the renewable energy sector can be developed both directly and indirectly throughout the entire value chain, involving the manufacturing, production, and distribution of the tools, or even in the provision of services like project management, operation, installation, and maintenance.
Myth 6: Renewable Energy cannot sustain providing a 24/7 source of electricity
Fact: Renewable energy is a mixture of different sources of solar power, natural gas, wind power, and the anaerobic digestion of plants. When all these sources are combined, they supply the different areas with a steady supply of energy, and the renewable energy works 24/7. The production of wind increases when the sun goes down, and when the raindrops fall, the hydroelectric power also gets enhanced. If the sun is up, then it helps boost the solar energy. In a day, renewable energy has its peak times; no matter what the weather conditions are, the energy production is always done.
Myth 7: Solar panels are made up of harmful materials and are not recyclable
Fact: The primary components of a solar panel are aluminium, silicon, copper, and glass, which are recyclable in large amounts. The production of solar panels does not involve any hazardous process; it requires additional safeguards and safety precautions above and beyond those for the usual business operation. Over the span of 25 years, they will continue to produce cost-free and pure energy. When the solar panel reaches the end of its useful life, its parts will be considered as non-hazardous waste and are eco-friendly.
FAQs
What is green energy, and how is it different from the conventional energy sources?
The green energy is generated from sources like wind, sun, and tides. These sources of energy are good for the planet as it does not generate air pollution or make climate change worse.
What are the economic benefits of investing in green energy?
In today’s world, using renewable energy is considered the cheapest way to generate power as its cost keeps dropping. Using renewable energy creates a lot of jobs, which helps the economy grow.
Why is green energy the future?
Yes, green energy is considered to be the future as it helps in addressing climate change, offers various economic benefits, and helps in improving energy security.
How are countries around the world embracing the change to green energy?
The countries around the globe are putting their efforts into using more green energy. The European Union wants to reduce its pollution quickly. China is also making its efforts to fight against climate change; they are also considered the top maker of solar panels in the world.