Different Types of Alternative Energy
Asked to name an example of alternative energy, most of us can quickly cite solar panels off the top of our heads. The very name, "alternative energy," implies an option that contrasts with more common or mainstream choices and we tend to think of it as inherently "green." For some alternative energies this is true, though the name is actually meant to be indicative of any fuel our societies may transition toward, from ones currently in use. For example, over-forestation in Europe during the 13th and 15th centuries led to widespread use of a "dirty" alternative, coal, as wood became too scarce or expensive.
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Biomass Energy
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Taking out the garbage today may just be the thing that turns on your lights tomorrow. Energy derived from biomass, usually meaning agricultural material, is also beginning to include biomass residues, such as the pulp left after processing wood, and even gases emitted from decaying municipal-waste products. Biomass offers some promise as a complementary alternative, in part because it is often produced as a byproduct of many already common activities, though it is so far incapable of competing with oil or gas fossil fuels in terms of demand.
Geothermal Energy
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While engineers plumb the earth's exterior for oil and gas fuels, some scientists argue that a much better energy source roils just below. The Union of Concerned Scientists states, "The amount of heat within 10,000 meters (about 33,000 feet) of Earth's surface contains 50,000 times more energy than all the oil and natural gas resources in the world." Most proposals involve using the high heat generated by magma to turn water into steam, transforming the energy inside the earth into a form that may be used to run electric power plants or heat houses directly.
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Solar Energy
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Solar energy is the poster child for "green" alternative energy and the first fallback for anyone who has ever dreamed of going "off the grid." Or is it? The New York Times reports that, as of the end of 2010, "solar power accounts for less than 1 percent of United States electricity use." While solar power characterizes almost everything sought for in an alternative energy -- pollution free, renewable and often practical -- so far it remains a costly option. Technology is beginning to close in on the issue, promising less expensive and more efficient solar cells in years to come.
Wind Energy
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A 2008 Harvard study revealed that wind power, energy gathered using large turbines moved by wind alone, could potentially provide "five times total global use of energy in all forms." This insight has moved wind energy into place as a top contender for alternative energy, in part because it is cost efficient and easy to implement. It can have downsides, however. Complaints about the noise created by wind turbines is not uncommon, and massive turbine "farms" could have negative implications for migrating birds.
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- Photo Credit garbage image by Mat Hayward from Fotolia.com
