Renewable energy comes from sources such as sunlight, wind and water.
These sources are naturally replaced. So, we can use them again and again.
However, each type of renewable energy works in a different way. Some make electricity, while others provide heat.
What Is Renewable Energy?
Renewable energy comes from sources that nature replaces.
The main sources include:
- sunlight
- wind
- water
- heat from the ground
- plant material
We can use these sources to make electricity or provide heat.
However, they do not all work in the same way.
So, it helps to look at each one separately.
How Is It Different?
Coal, oil and natural gas are fossil fuels.
They take millions of years to form. So, they cannot be replaced as quickly as we use them.
Renewable sources are different because nature keeps replacing them.
However, renewable energy is not free.
We still need equipment to collect, make and move the energy.
Solar Power
Solar panels use sunlight to make electricity.
These are called solar PV panels.
They can be fitted to homes and businesses. They can also be used in large solar farms.
However, solar panels make more electricity at some times than others.
For example, they usually make more during the brighter months. They make less during winter and none at night.
So, the amount of solar power available keeps changing.
Learn more: Solar PV and Battery Storage →
Wind Power
Wind turbines use moving air to make electricity.
They can be built on land or at sea.
However, wind speeds change.
So, the amount of electricity a wind turbine makes also changes.
Learn more: How Wind Turbines Work →
Offshore Wind
Offshore wind turbines are built at sea.
The electricity they make is sent back to land through cables. It can then enter the electricity grid.
The grid moves electricity around the country.
So, making the electricity is only one part of the process. It also needs to reach the homes and businesses that need it.
Learn more: Offshore Wind and the Electricity Grid →
Water Power
Moving water can also make electricity.
This is called hydro power.
The water can turn a turbine, which then helps make electricity.
However, hydro power needs the right location and enough water.
So, it works well in some places but is not suitable everywhere.
Heat Pumps
Heat pumps use electricity to move heat.
For example, an air source heat pump takes heat from the outside air and moves it into your home.
A ground source heat pump takes heat from the ground.
So, heat pumps work differently from standard electric heaters.
Learn more: Air Source Heat Pumps →
Learn more: Ground Source Heat Pumps →
Solar Thermal
Solar thermal uses heat from the sun to help heat water.
It is different from solar PV.
Solar PV → makes electricity
Solar thermal → helps heat water
However, the amount of heat available changes during the year.
So, most homes with solar thermal still need another way to heat their water.
Learn more: How Solar Thermal Works →
Is Renewable Energy Always Available?
No.
Some types depend on the weather.
For example:
- solar power depends on daylight
- wind power depends on wind
- some hydro power depends on water
However, we need electricity at all times of the day.
So, the electricity system needs other ways to keep supply and demand matched.
For example, it can use different sources of power, energy storage and links with other countries.
What About Batteries?
Batteries can store electricity.
So, electricity made at one time can sometimes be used later.
For example, solar panels may make more electricity during the day than a home needs.
A battery can store some of this extra electricity. Then, the home may be able to use it later.
However, batteries cost money and can only store a set amount of energy.
So, a battery will make more sense for some homes than others.
Learn more: Solar PV and Battery Storage →
Is Renewable Energy Free?
No.
Sunlight and wind are free. However, the equipment needed to use them is not.
For example, we may need:
- solar panels
- wind turbines
- heat pumps
- batteries
- cables
These need to be made and fitted. They may also need repairs or other work during their life.
So, renewable energy does not mean free energy.
Does It Have an Impact?
Yes.
All forms of energy have some effect on the world around us.
For example, renewable energy can need:
- land
- materials
- new equipment
- cables
- transport
Some projects can also affect wildlife or the local area.
However, the effects are different for each type of energy.
So, it is better to look at the facts for each option rather than assume that any form of energy has no impact.
Is It Right for Your Home?
Some homes can make or use renewable energy themselves.
Options may include:
- solar panels
- solar thermal
- air source heat pumps
- ground source heat pumps
However, not every option suits every home.
So, first look at your property and how you use energy.
Then check:
- whether your home is suitable
- how much energy you use
- when you use it
- what the system could produce
- what it will cost
- what it could save
Learn more: Is Renewable Energy Right for Your Home? →
Where Should You Start?
First, decide what you want to do.
For example, do you want to:
- make your own electricity?
- buy less electricity?
- change how you heat your home?
- reduce your energy bills?
Next, look at the options that could help.
Then, compare the cost and likely benefit.
Finally, check whether the system suits your home.
So, start with what you need. Then choose the technology.
Key Points
Renewable energy comes from sources that nature replaces.
For example, we can use sunlight, wind and water to make energy.
However, each type works differently.
Also, renewable energy is not free or always available.
So, before choosing a system, find out how it works, what it costs and whether it suits your home.
Next: Solar PV and Battery Storage →