Using clean energy has become more acceptable as people become more embracing of the negative impact of traditional energy sources on the planet. The rise of global temperatures and climate change has made it essential to transition from traditional sources to sustainable and renewable energy sources.
What is Clean Energy?
This form of energy is provided through renewable and sustainable sources such as wind, solar, hydropower, geothermal and biomass. Compared to traditional energy sources like coal, oil, and gas, known to release harmful greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, clean energy sources have little or no emissions and bode well for our world.
The Benefits of Clean Energy
Impact on Environment: The most significant benefit of clean energy is that it leaves minimal environmental impact. This is essentially achieved by reducing carbon emissions so we can significantly slow down the effects of climate change and protect the environment for even generations yet unborn.
Energy Security: As traditional energy sources become more unavailable, there is a growing need for the world to embrace clean energy sources. Diversifying our energy sources will also help to reduce dependence on foreign oil and gas and create a more secure energy future for Nigeria and the African continent.
Economic Benefits: Besides its environmental benefits, clean energy is a rapidly growing industry that creates job opportunities and drives economic growth. The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) estimates that renewable energy employment reached 11.5 million in 2019. The figure was up from 11 million just the year before and is projected to have grown further since then.
Clean Energy Technologies
Solar Energy: Solar energy is one of the most popular clean energy sources, and it’s easy to see why. With the cost of solar panels dropping, it’s becoming increasingly affordable for homeowners and businesses to install solar panels and generate electricity.
Wind Energy: This is another popular clean energy source that has grown significantly in recent years. Wind turbines convert the wind’s kinetic energy into electricity, powering homes and business premises.
Hydropower: Hydropower is one of the oldest sources of electricity generation and refers to using water to generate electricity. A clean and renewable energy source, it has been in use for centuries and electricity through this source can be generated through dams, turbines and other technological sources.
Geothermal Energy: Another exciting form of electricity generation method, this has to do with generating energy from heat radiating from the earth’s core. This form of energy can be harnessed through geothermal power plants, which generate electricity by using the heat to create steam to power turbines.
Biomass Energy: One of the most unique sources of generating electricity, biomass energy is produced by burning organic matter such as wood and waste from plants and animals. This energy source can generate electricity, provide heat in homes and even power vehicles.
With the growing demand for sustainable and renewable energy sources across the globe, it has become essential that we continue to invest in and explore technology to tap further into clean energy sources. By doing so, we can reduce the environmental impact, create job opportunities and drive economic growth. We need to be more intentional and come together to ensure a cleaner future for our world.
