by Bisera Apostolova 2 weeks ago 17 min
Renewable energy, often referred to as alternative energy, is derived from natural resources or processes that continuously renew themselves. This includes naturally occurring elements such as sunlight, wind, ocean tides and waves, as well as geothermal heat. Renewable energy is commonly categorized into solar, wind, hydroelectric, and biomass (biofuel) energy.
Their growing popularity stems from numerous benefits, including minimal environmental pollution, job creation, cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and high efficiency. The shift towards renewable energy, particularly evident since the start of the 21st century, aims to lessen reliance on fossil fuels. Historically, fossil fuels have been the mainstay for industrial and domestic energy needs, but they come with significant drawbacks like environmental damage, pollution, and contribution to global warming.
The burning of fossil fuels releases harmful gases, including carbon dioxide, leading to air pollution and climate change. Additionally, oil spills and pipeline leaks cause air and soil contamination, negatively impacting human health and the environment. In response to these challenges, there has been a growing demand for alternative, more sustainable energy sources to protect our delicate planet. This article delves into over 20 insightful facts about renewable energy, illuminating its potential and historical development.
Contrary to popular belief, solar energy isn’t a recent innovation. Its roots trace back to 1839 when Alexandre Edmond Becquerel first identified the ‘photovoltaic effect’ , which is the generation of electricity from sunlight, laying the groundwork for solar energy. This discovery paved the way for further advancements, such as Russel Ohl’s invention of the solar cell in 1941.
Notably, solar technology gained significant prominence when NASA implemented it in the 1950s, notably on the Vanguard satellite, which holds the distinction of being the oldest satellite still in orbit. This early adoption by NASA marked a pivotal moment in the history of solar energy, showcasing its potential for reliable and sustainable power in even the most challenging environments. The progress in solar technology since these early discoveries has been monumental, leading to its current status as a key player in the global shift towards renewable energy.
Solar energy’s storage capabilities have seen innovative developments, notably through molten-salt technology, also known as molten-salt energy storage (MSES). In this method, concentrated solar energy is utilized to heat salt to a melting point of 131 degrees Celsius. This molten salt is then stored in a specially insulated tank, maintaining its liquid state.
Thanks to this insulation, the stored thermal energy can be preserved for use for as long as a week. When there’s a need for electricity, this heated salt is channeled to a standard steam generator, which then creates superheated steam. This steam is instrumental in powering turbines and generators akin to those found in traditional coal, oil, or nuclear power plants. Currently, a majority of solar thermal power stations employ this innovative technique, signifying a major leap in how solar energy is stored and utilized.
The Earth receives an abundance of sunlight each hour, sufficient to satisfy its yearly energy needs. Among the primary methods of harnessing this solar power are photovoltaic (PV) panels. These panels absorb the sun’s rays, and through a process called photoradiation, the electrons in the silicon cells convert these rays into electricity. This transformation of solar energy into usable power is what lights up our homes and fuels our businesses, demonstrating the incredible potential of solar energy as a sustainable and abundant energy source.
Geothermal energy, tapping into the Earth’s natural heat, has been utilized since the mid-1860s. In Oregon, hotels innovatively used geothermal energy derived from underground hot springs to heat water for guest rooms and other hotel facilities. This early use of geothermal power demonstrated its practical application in everyday settings.
The pioneering step towards industrial-scale geothermal energy came with the opening of the first geothermal power plant in California in 1921. This milestone ignited a wave of research and development in academic circles, significantly contributing to the advancement of geothermal technology.
By 1948, these efforts culminated in the creation of the first geothermal heating equipment, marking a significant leap in harnessing the Earth’s heat for sustainable energy. This history highlights geothermal energy’s longstanding role in renewable energy development, showcasing its potential as a reliable and environmentally friendly energy source.
The use of geothermal energy for electricity dates back to 1904, when Italian scientist Piero Ginori Conti demonstrated its potential by powering a small generator to light several bulbs. This marked a significant shift from traditional geothermal applications like cooking, bathing, and heating. Conti’s experiment laid the groundwork for future advancements in geothermal power.
By 1913, this innovation had led to the establishment of the world’s first commercial geothermal power plant in Larderello, Italy. This pioneering facility not only proved the feasibility of geothermal energy for large-scale electricity generation but also opened the door for global exploration and development of this renewable resource. Over the years, technological advancements have significantly improved the efficiency and capacity of geothermal power generation, making it a key component in the quest for sustainable and clean energy solutions.
Hydropower is the most significant source of renewable electricity globally, surpassing other renewable technologies combined. It’s projected to maintain this lead into the 2030s, playing a vital role in decarbonizing power systems and enhancing flexibility. In 2022, hydroelectricity generation rose by nearly 70 TWh, amounting to around 4,300 TWh, thus remaining the dominant renewable energy source.
To achieve the Net Zero Emissions by 2050 Scenario, hydropower must grow at an average annual rate of about 4% from 2023 to 2030, aiming to generate roughly 5,500 TWh annually. This required growth rate marks a significant increase from the past five years, highlighting the need for more robust efforts in permitting and sustainability. Hydropower plants are crucial for future clean power systems and need appropriate support and recognition.
Situated in Rajasthan, India, the Bhadla Solar Park holds the title of the world’s largest solar farm, with an impressive installed capacity of 2245 megawatts (MW). Spread across 14,000 acres in the Jodhpur district, this colossal facility epitomizes the scale and ambition of modern solar energy projects.
The park, boasting a 2.25 GW capacity, represents a significant investment, exceeding 1.3 billion dollars. Operational since 2017, it features over 10 million solar panels. Its development unfolded in four distinct phases, guided by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) and aligned with the Rajasthan Solar Energy Policy of 2011.
This solar plant takes full advantage of Rajasthan’s arid climate, converting the intense desert heat into a substantial source of clean, renewable energy. Its creation not only marks a milestone in India’s renewable energy journey but also serves as a global benchmark for large-scale solar power generation.
In July 2021, a landmark achievement in tidal energy occurred with the connection of the world’s most potent tidal turbine to the electricity grid onshore in Orkney, an archipelago situated in northern Scotland. Dubbed ‘O2’, this turbine stretches 74 meters in length and weighs 680 tonnes. Anchored in the sea near Orkney for a projected duration of 15 years, O2 is designed to supply enough electricity annually to power approximately 2,000 homes.
In addition to its primary function, this turbine also plays a pivotal role in green energy innovation by powering an onshore electrolyser. This electrolyser is integral in producing green hydrogen, showcasing the turbine’s multifaceted contribution to sustainable energy solutions. This development not only underscores the potential of tidal power but also marks a significant step forward in the integration of renewable energy sources into the existing grid.
As nations globally strive to diminish their carbon footprints, Iceland emerges as a frontrunner, nearly achieving 100% renewable energy utilization. This remarkable feat is largely attributed to Iceland’s rich natural resources, particularly its geothermal and hydroelectric reserves. The country’s commitment to sustainable energy is exemplified by the geothermal power plant on the Reykjanes peninsula, which taps into the Earth’s heat to generate electricity. This plant, along with numerous others across the country, harnesses the geothermal energy that is abundant due to Iceland’s unique volcanic geography.
Additionally, Iceland’s numerous rivers and waterfalls contribute significantly through hydroelectric power. This focus on renewable sources not only positions Iceland as a leader in green energy but also serves as a model for other countries seeking to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and combat climate change. Through these efforts, Iceland demonstrates the feasibility and benefits of transitioning to renewable energy on a national scale.
Modern wind turbines, while appearing sleek and streamlined, are intricately complex machines composed of approximately 8,000 individual parts. These towering structures typically stand about 60 metres high, reaching an overall height of around 90 metres when the blades and turbine are included. This height is a testament to the significant advancements in wind power technology.
The journey of harnessing wind energy spans over two thousand years, evolving from simple windmills used for grinding grain and pumping water to these sophisticated giants generating electricity. Today’s wind turbines are marvels of engineering, designed to maximize efficiency and durability. Their development reflects the progress in renewable energy technology, showcasing how ancient practices have evolved into modern solutions to meet the growing demand for sustainable energy. These turbines not only represent a leap in design and functionality but also signify the ongoing commitment to renewable energy sources as vital components of the global energy mix.
The Goldwind GWH252-16MW, stationed offshore in Fujian Province, China, stands as the world’s largest wind turbine. Dominating the seascape with its massive 252-meter diameter, this engineering marvel has showcased its impressive capabilities. On September 1st, amid a typhoon in southeast China, the turbine produced a substantial 384.1 megawatt hours (MWh) of electricity in a 24-hour period. This output is enough to power roughly 170,000 homes, illuminate 38 million LEDs, or drive electric cars for 2.2 million kilometers. While its production capacity is noteworthy, the turbine’s sheer size and scale primarily emphasize its status as a leading figure in renewable energy advancements.
In 2021, China surpassed the rest of the world in offshore wind capacity installations, achieving more in that year than other countries did in the previous five years combined. By 2022, China was responsible for 49% of the global offshore wind capacity of 64.3GW, slightly outpacing Europe’s 47%. Additionally, China is embarking on an ambitious project to build the world’s largest wind farm, a venture so vast it has the potential to supply electricity equivalent to Norway’s entire consumption. The project’s commencement is expected before 2025.
Despite these achievements in renewable energy, China’s environmental record remains mixed. Li Shuo, a senior policy advisor at Greenpeace East Asia, cautions that while China is a dominant force in the global power sector and a leader in renewable energy expansion, it is concurrently increasing its approval of coal projects.
China aims to produce a third of its electricity from renewable sources by 2025 and has set a goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060. This target is notably more distant than those set by many other countries, indicating a complex path ahead in its energy transition.
Geothermal energy’s global resource base surpasses the combined resources of coal, oil, gas, and uranium. Situated about 121 kilometers north of San Francisco in California, the Geysers Geothermal Complex stands as the largest geothermal installation globally. This complex boasts 18 power plants, with an operational production capacity of 900 megawatts (MW) and an installed capacity reaching 1,517 MW.
The Geysers serve as a significant contributor to renewable energy, showcasing the vast potential and efficiency of geothermal power in meeting energy needs sustainably. This facility not only underscores the capacity of geothermal resources but also highlights the increasing importance of renewable energy sources in the global energy landscape.
The Three Gorges hydroelectric power plant, located in Yichang, Hubei province, China, with a capacity of 22.5 gigawatts (GW), is the largest hydropower station in the world. This facility, a traditional impoundment hydropower system, harnesses the Yangtze River’s flow. The China Three Gorges Corporation (CTGC), through its subsidiary China Yangtze Power, owns and operates this monumental project.
Initiated in 1993 and completed in 2012, the construction of this 203 billion yuan (about $29 billion) project included the creation of a 181-meter-tall and 2,335-meter-long gravity dam. The Three Gorges power plant is equipped with 32 turbine/generator units, each with a capacity of 700MW, in addition to two 50MW power generators. Notably, the project involved collaboration with six international groups for equipment supply, including Alstom, which provided 14 Francis turbine units.
Annually, the plant produces an estimated 85 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity, supplying power to nine provinces and two major cities, including Shanghai, playing a pivotal role in the region’s power infrastructure.
In 2023, the global renewable energy capacity is experiencing its largest annual increase, primarily driven by enhanced energy security concerns and substantial solar and wind development in China. This growth is expected to contribute an additional 107 gigawatts, exceeding the total power capacities of Germany and Spain combined. Key factors propelling this expansion include government support and the increasing cost-competitiveness of renewables against fossil fuels.
By 2024, the world’s total renewable electricity capacity is projected to reach 4,500 GW, equivalent to the combined output of China and the U.S. In response to geopolitical shifts, particularly the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Europe has significantly increased its renewable capacity, focusing on solar and wind to reduce reliance on Russian natural gas. The solar photovoltaic production capacity is on track to double by 2024, with China at the forefront. Additionally, wind power is making a strong recovery in 2023, rebounding from slower growth in the previous years due to COVID-19 and supply chain disruptions.
In the first half of 2023, renewable energy sources have provided a significant portion of the United States’ electricity, continuing a trend of gradual increase from the previous year, as indicated by recent data from the US Energy Information Administration (EIA). The EIA’s “Electric Power Monthly” report highlights that renewables, including biomass, geothermal, hydropower, solar, and wind, have played a notable role in the country’s energy mix.
Solar energy, in particular, has seen remarkable growth, bolstered substantially by the surge in small-scale solar installations, such as rooftop solar panels. This increase in solar energy use has contributed notably to the overall renewable energy production, making solar a key player in the U.S. energy landscape. The shift towards renewables, especially solar, reflects an ongoing transformation in the U.S.’s approach to energy generation, emphasizing sustainable and renewable sources.
Currently, over a billion people globally lack access to electricity, a challenge that renewable energy is uniquely positioned to address. Due to its cost-effectiveness, renewable energy is a more feasible solution than expanding the traditional electric grid, particularly in sparsely populated or remote areas. It also presents a more affordable option compared to diesel or kerosene systems, making it an ideal choice for smaller and economically disadvantaged communities.
The deployment of solar, wind, and mini-hydro technologies in these regions is not only bridging the electricity access gap but also promoting sustainable development. This shift towards renewables is crucial in empowering communities, enhancing living standards, and contributing to global energy equity.
Contrary to some political arguments favoring fossil fuels for job preservation, renewable energy actually generates more employment opportunities. As of 2017, the renewable sector employed over 10 million people globally, which is approximately three times the number of jobs created by the fossil fuel industry. This trend is driven by the labor-intensive nature of renewable projects, like solar panel installations and wind farm construction.
As the world increasingly embraces renewable energy, this sector continues to outpace fossil fuels in job creation, offering a diverse range of roles from engineering to manufacturing and maintenance, significantly contributing to global economic growth and sustainable development.
Contrary to concerns about the reliability of a fully renewable-powered grid, diverse renewable energy sources like solar and wind contribute to enhanced grid stability and reliability. The decentralized nature of these energy sources, dispersed over wide areas and consisting of numerous units, actually reduces the likelihood of widespread failure during severe weather events.
Unlike centralized power plants, which can experience significant outages, the redundancy and variety inherent in renewable energy systems make them more resilient to localized disruptions. This distributed model of energy production not only ensures a more stable supply but also enables quicker recovery from any isolated issues, making renewables a robust and reliable energy solution.
The innovative Solar Airship One by Euro Airship, a whale-shaped aircraft, is gearing up for an unprecedented journey. Planned to embark in 2026, it aims to fly over 25 countries in a 20-day, non-stop tour solely powered by solar energy and hydrogen, marking the first round-the-world flight without using fossil fuels. Euro Airship is committed to ensuring this aircraft operates without noise, fossil fuels, or carbon emissions, relying entirely on renewable energy sources.
Designed to be 151 meters in length, this unique aircraft will feature a rigid airship structure and have a helium capacity of 53,000 cubic meters. Its surface will be almost entirely covered with 4,800 square meters of solar film to maximize sunlight absorption. The solar energy collected during the day will power the aircraft, while excess energy will be stored in fuel cells, generating hydrogen through water electrolysis for night-time use. To enhance its agility and weather responsiveness, the airship will consist of 15 individually controlled gas envelopes, mitigating the inertia often associated with helium use. This ambitious project symbolizes a significant leap forward in sustainable aviation technology.
In summarizing the current state of renewable energy, it’s evident that we are witnessing a significant shift towards sustainable power sources. The dominance of hydropower, the largest renewable energy source, highlights the effectiveness of utilizing natural resources. Solar energy, with installations like the Bhadla Solar Park, and the advancements in wind energy technology, as seen in the Goldwind GWH252 turbine, are testaments to the rapid growth and potential of these sectors.
However, challenges remain. The integration of renewables into the existing power grids, the need for effective energy storage solutions, and the sustainability of the production processes are critical areas requiring attention and innovation. The role of renewables in reducing the reliance on fossil fuels and in contributing to global decarbonization efforts is becoming increasingly crucial.
Looking forward, the renewable energy sector needs sustained investment, supportive policies, and robust infrastructure development. The growth rate required to meet global energy goals, particularly in hydropower, underscores the urgency of these efforts. The journey towards a fully sustainable energy future is underway, but it requires concerted efforts from governments, industries, and communities to realize its full potential. The progress made thus far in renewable energy adoption is promising, but continuous commitment and innovation are essential to overcome the existing hurdles and achieve a more sustainable, cleaner energy landscape.
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