The world is awash with a variety of energy sources. In 2018 fossil fuels, like gas, oil and coal, comprised more than 81 percent energy consumed. Renewables, like solar power, wind, hydroelectricity and biomass, account for 14 percent. Nuclear energy is responsible for another 5percent. Different countries use different energy sources to balance the needs of their economy and environmental concerns.

Nature’s energy can be found in a variety of forms: sun, wind, waves, and ocean. These primary sources transform into more efficient forms of energy, like electricity or heat, when they are harnessed. These energies become non-renewable sources of energy once they have been exhausted.

The environment is harmed by many fossil fuels, as well as some other non-renewable sources of energy. For instance mining for oil may take away the planet’s forests. Hydraulic fracturing (fracking) can cause earthquakes and pollute the water. Carbon dioxide is released when coal is burned, which contributes to global warming.

Fortunately, some of the most promising sources of energy are renewable and sustainable. Solar, wind and hydropower generate, for instance electricity without digging for new sources.

Tidal and Wave Power are two more renewable energy sources that are emerging. In order to be utilized at a large-scale, these technologies require effective distribution networks. This requires the use non-renewable energy sources to build these networks. Therefore, these sources are not yet enough to supply the majority of our energy needs. It’s still important to remember that the prices of renewable energy equipment have decreased dramatically in recent times and that efficiency is increasing.

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