Renewable energy comes from naturally available sources, such as the sun, wind, water and plants. It also refers to the energy available from wastes and to the emerging clean technology of fuel cells.
The modern drive to harness renewable energy began in the 1970’s. It was promoted by concerns over the price and availability of fossil fuels – oil, gas and coal. These arguments are now enhanced by the need to reduce carbon emissions.
By exploiting renewable energy few, if any, harmful emissions are produced and the rate at which finite resources are used is reduced. With the world’s population continuing to grow, renewables are expected to play an increasingly significant role in the future. The Government is proposing that 10%UK electricity needs should be met from renewables by the end of 2010 and 20% by 2020.
You can make a real difference by considering installing solar water heating, solar electricity or a mini-wind turbine. If none of these options are feasible, you could ‘do your bit’ by choosing a green electricity tariff.