We have all heard the back and fourth about global warming and whether or not humans and fossil fuels are the cause, or if the statistics we are seeing are just a matter of standard climate change over time. The fact remains: Fossil fuels are quickly becoming a thing of the past and alternative energy sources are being used more and more as our society moves forward.
One alternative energy source that has seen an increase over fossil fuels in the past decade is wind energy. Wind power is the conversion of wind energy into a useful form of energy. The primary method of harnessing this type of energy is wind turbines. Large wind farms connect to the power transmission network to provide power to surrounding areas. Due to the lack of emissions and the increase in power companies buying back surplus electricity produced by these turbines the electricity production of wind turbines has doubled in the past three years.
Solar energy is another alternative energy source that has been steadily increasing in use over the past few years. Solar energy is energy derived from the sun through solar radiation. This is a relatively inexpensive way to harness the energy of our sun to help provide power for our every day needs. Solar power is now relatively inexpensive and kits are being sold that can power residential houses and buildings. There are also projects available that will allow you to take solar powered garden lamps and turn them into backup cell phone charges.
These are just a few examples of the alternative energy sources that are becoming more mainstream every day. While fossil fuels may or may not be causing global warming, these alternatives can be less costly both on our economy and our wallets. It will be interesting to see the developments of these energy sources in our daily lives in the future.