The world relies on a variety of different energy sources. Fossil-based fuels such as natural gas, oil and coal–accounted for more than 81 % of the energy consumed in 2018. Renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar power, hydroelectricity and biomass, account for 14 percent. Nuclear energy accounts for another 5 percent. Different countries use different sources of energy to meet the environmental and economic demands.
Nature is a rich source of energy in a number of forms: sunlight and wind, waves, oceans, and more. These sources of energy can be transformed into more practical forms of energy, like electricity or heat, when they are harnessed. These energy sources become non-renewable sources of energy when they are exhausted.
Many fossil fuels, as well as some of other energy sources that are not renewable can be harmful to the environment. For example mining for oil could strip the planet’s pristine forests. Fracking (hydraulic fracture) could cause earthquakes and water pollution. The burning of coal releases carbon dioxide, contributing to global warming.
Fortunately some of the most promising sources of energy are renewable and sustainable. Wind, solar and hydropower, for instance, can generate electricity without having to search for new resources.
Other renewable energy sources are emerging, such as waves and tidal power. But, in order to be utilized at a large scale these technologies need efficient distribution networks. They must be constructed, which requires the use of non-renewable energy sources. These sources aren’t enough to fulfill the majority of our energy requirements. Still, it’s important to keep in mind that prices for renewable energy equipment have dropped significantly over the last couple of years, and efficiency is growing quickly.
