Energy sources

Energy Sources

Fossil Fuels

• Fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas are created from the fossilised remains of dead plants and animals.
• They are non-renewable resources, which means they cannot be replenished and will eventually be exhausted.
• The combustion of fossil fuels results in the release of carbon dioxide, a major contributor to climate change.
• Fossil fuels also release other air pollutants when burned, such as sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, which can cause air and water pollution.

Nuclear Energy

• Nuclear energy is generated by nuclear fission reactions, in which large atomic nuclei (usually uranium or plutonium) are split into smaller parts, releasing a large amount of energy.
• It provides a large amount of energy from a small amount of fuel but has serious environmental risks, such as radioactive waste.
• Nuclear fusion, in which smaller atomic nuclei combine to form larger ones, could potentially offer an abundant, less risky source of nuclear energy in future, but this technology is not yet viable.

Renewable Energy

• Renewable energy sources include solar power, wind power, hydropower, geothermal power and bioenergy.
• They are generally much less damaging to the environment than fossil fuels or nuclear power, emitting few or no greenhouse gases or other pollutants.
• However, renewable energy technologies are often more expensive and less reliable than other forms, though this is changing as technology improves.

Energy Conservation

• Energy conservation refers to steps taken to reduce energy consumption by improving efficiency.
• This can include using energy-efficient appliances or insulating homes to reduce heat loss.
• Energy conservation can also involve changing behaviours to save energy, such as switching off lights when leaving a room.
• These measures can be cost-effective, reduce the need for fossil fuels, and lessen the impact on climate change.

Sustainable Energy

• Sustainable energy is an approach to energy use that can be maintained indefinitely without depleting resources or harming the environment.
• It involves the use of sustainable energy sources, such as renewable energy and nuclear power, and sustainable energy technologies, such as energy-saving devices and technologies.
• Promoting sustainable energy can involve a variety of strategies, including energy efficiency, carbon pricing and energy policy reforms.
• The aim is to provide for current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.