There are several ways to generate sustainable, or clean, energy:
- Solar energy: Solar panels can be installed on rooftops or in open spaces to capture the sun’s energy and convert it into electricity.
- Wind energy: Wind turbines can be installed in areas with strong, consistent winds to generate electricity.
- Hydroelectric energy: Water can be used to generate electricity through hydroelectric dams or smaller-scale systems such as microhydropower plants.
- Geothermal energy: Heat from the Earth’s interior can be harnessed to generate electricity through geothermal power plants.
- Biomass energy: Organic materials such as wood, agricultural waste, and even garbage can be burned to generate electricity or heat.
- Nuclear energy: Nuclear power plants generate electricity by using the heat produced from nuclear reactions to generate steam, which drives a turbine to produce electricity.
To store sustainable energy, there are several options, including:
- Batteries: Energy can be stored in batteries for later use. This is commonly done with solar panels, for example, to store excess energy generated during the day for use at night.
- Pumped hydro storage: This involves pumping water uphill to a reservoir when excess energy is available, and then releasing it downhill through a turbine to generate electricity when it is needed.
- Compressed air energy storage: Excess energy can be used to compress air, which can then be stored in underground caverns or tanks. The compressed air can be released to drive a turbine and generate electricity when it is needed.
- Flywheel energy storage: This involves using excess energy to spin a heavy wheel at high speeds. The kinetic energy of the spinning wheel can then be converted back into electricity when it is needed.
- Thermal energy storage: Heat generated from renewable energy sources can be stored in materials such as molten salt or ice for use when it is needed to generate electricity
