Renewable energy uses the natural power of sun, wind, water, or biomass to produce electricity. These technologies are more environmentally friendly than fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas. They also emit lower levels of greenhouse gases, which contribute to global warming and increased frequency and severity of extreme weather events.
Solar power uses photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight into electric energy. This produces green electricity that is cheaper than traditional options. Wind energy takes advantage of gale-force winds to generate green electricity by spinning turbines. This technology is most suitable in rural and remote areas where there are high wind speeds. Hydroelectric power is a sustainable and clean energy technology that harnesses the kinetic energy of moving water using dams, which can be used to produce electricity.
The use of renewable energy helps reduce air pollution, thereby improving public health and reducing deaths caused by respiratory diseases. This is achieved by reducing nitrogen oxide, sulfur dioxide and particulate matter pollutants.
The renewable industry employs three times as many people in America as fossil fuels, and it can provide good jobs over an extended period of time. It is also one of the fastest growing sectors, providing above-average wages. It also helps stabilize or even decrease energy prices by avoiding spikes in fossil fuel production costs. This can help consumers save money on their electricity bills as well as on other energy-intensive household products like heating and cooling.