What is renewable and non renewable energy?

What is renewable energy?

Renewable energy, often referred to as 'green' energy comes from resources that naturally renew themselves. In this blog post, we'll cover common types of renewable and non-renewable energy sources, the pros and cons of each type and some interesting statistics. With the UK striving to achieve its net-zero emissions goal by 2050, renewable energy plays a vital role in building a sustainable future. Let's jump straight into some sources of renewable energy that are available to us today.

Sources of renewable energy

​Solar
Solar power captures energy from the sun using solar panels, which transform sunlight into electricity via photovoltaic cells. This renewable energy source is efficient even on cloudy days, making it a reliable option in the UK's climate. With an impressive installed capacity of over 14 gigawatts (GW), the UK stands as one of the leading countries in Europe for embracing solar energy. For reference, 1 gigawatt can power around 1 million light bulbs!
 
Wind
Wind power harnesses the kinetic energy of the wind through turbines to generate electricity. The UK's geography, especially its vast coastline, makes it perfectly for the capture of renewable wind energy. Even back in 2020, the UK boasted the world's largest offshore wind capacity, contributing over 24% of its electricity needs from these wind farms.
 
Hydropower
Hydropower, or hydroelectric energy, generates electricity from flowing or falling water, typically using dams or turbines. While the UK has few large rivers suitable for hydropower, China remains a world leader in the use of hydroelectric power. Although less widespread, hydropower provides a reliable source of renewable energy, particularly in rural areas.
 
Ocean
This type of renewable energy harnesses the power of the oceans strong waves and tides. Converters capture the energy and use it to generate electricity. Emerging technologies, including geothermal and tidal power, show promise for the UK, particularly in areas like Cornwall for geothermal projects.
 
Bioenergy
Biomass energy comes from burning things like wood pellets, leftover crops, and food waste. It's a great renewable energy source for making electricity, keeping homes warm, and even powering vehicles. Biomass is a flexible and green way to replace fossil fuels, helping to make greener electricity and heat.

Pros and cons of renewable energy

​Pros
Lower energy costs
Following the upfront expenses for setting up the system, renewable energy technologies (such as photovoltaic PV solar panels or air source heat pumps) maintain much lower expenses for their operation and maintenance.
Greener energy
Sources of renewable energy, including the sun, wind, and water, generate minimal to no emissions of greenhouse gases, aiding in the reduction of air contamination and the fight against global warming.
Job opportunities
The renewable energy industry has generated millions of employment opportunities worldwide in the areas of manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and research.
 
Cons
High initial costs
Setting up green energy infrastructures (like hydroelectric plants and large wind turbines) is expensive, but the long-term savings make it worth the investment, and the positive impact on the planet makes renewable energy essential.
Storage Challenges
Storing energy from renewable sources for times when production is low (like cloudy days or calm winds) can be pricey and complex, requiring advanced batteries or grid systems. New technical advances are always being made which will remove a lot of the negatives associated with renewables.

What is non-renewable energy?

​Non-renewable energy refers to energy that come from our resources that cannot be replenished, at least not on a human level timescale. Once these resources are used up, they are gone forever, and we are burning through them quite quickly!

Sources of non-renewable energy

​Fossil Fuels (Coal, Natural Gas, Petroleum) These energy sources originate from the remains of prehistoric plants and animals. Coal is in a solid state, petroleum is in liquid form and natural gas is... yes you guessed its a gas! They are all burned to create power, warmth, and energy for transportation.
​
Nuclear Power This power is produced by the division of atoms (typically uranium) in a method known as fission, that generates heat, which is then used to produce electricity in power plants. Nuclear power has lower carbon emissions than fossil fuels power plants but issues regarding radioactive waste and environmental safety are a concern.

Pros and cons of non-renewable energy

Pros
High Energy Density
Non-renewable energy sources, offer a high energy output relative to their fuel volume, making them ideal for large-scale power generation and transportation.
Reliable and Constant Supply
Unlike the intermittent nature of some renewable energy sources, non-renewable sources provide a stable and continuous supply of energy, ensuring a reliable power supply for industries and households. (For as long as our reserves last)
Infrastructure and Technology
The infrastructure for extracting, refining, and distributing non-renewable energy is well-developed, facilitating easy access and utilisation on a global scale.
 
Cons
Climate Change
Burning non-renewable energy sources like coal and oil releases large amounts of carbon dioxide, polluting the air and significantly accelerating climate change. The extraction process also harms the surrounding natural landscapes.
We're Running Out
We only have a limited amount of these resources, and they're going to run out eventually. As we get closer to running out, it costs more to get them, which also isn't good for the planet in the long run.
Health and Pollution
​Digging for oil and gas can make the air, water, and ground polluted, hurting people and animals. Big oil spills and accidents from digging up coal are common problems for us and the environment.

Conclusion

Despite the advanced infrastructure the continued reliance on non-renewable energy sources presents a significant challenge. We are confronted with the undeniable truth that fossil fuels are finite and that our dependence on renewable energy sources will soon become evident. Switching to renewable, clean energy options like wind, solar, and hydroelectric power is crucial in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and making our planet more sustainable. Kozykoala are experts in renewable fuel systems, get in touch to see what we can do to make your home or business greener!

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