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A Brief Overview of Alternative Energy
from: EnvironmentSense.comAlternative energy is energy that is renewable and is obtained from the Sun, wind, waves, or other natural sources. This is in contrast to energy that is obtained by fossil fuels such as oil, gas, or coal that is not renewable. Alternative energy is a non-traditional method of obtaining energy that has a minimal impact on the Earths environment. Alternative energy is, by its very nature, economically easy on the environment and does not have a harmful effect on the planet.
Due to record high gas prices and increasing concerns about the health of the planet and the long term viability of fossil fuels, alternative energy has been thrust to the forefront of many peoples' minds. Many companies and individuals are searching for effective ways to use alternative energy and decrease our dependence on foreign oil and fuel. There are many fears that the present supply of fossil fuels will not last, leading to a calamity of catastrophic proportions. Alternative energy is the key to becoming a more self-sufficient and independent as a nation, as well as the only way to ensure the safety of the planet and the long term health of its citizens.
There are many different sources of alternative energy that can be used very effectively. Geothermal energy produces energy from using the heat from beneath the Earths surface and collecting heat from the atmosphere or oceans. Most use a process called flash steam. Solar energy converts sunlight into energy using photovoltaic panels. There are many experts around the country that can install these panels to convert the sunlight into usable energy. Another renewable energy source for alternative energy is wind energy. Wind is caused by the uneven heating of the Earths surface by the Sun. Wind energy harnesses this energy by using wind turbines to convert wind power into a usable energy source. Wave power is another method of alternative energy that uses the oceans surface waves to generate electricity and also to desalinate water. Wave power can not be harnessed just anywhere but there are several places around the world that are excellent sources of wave power including Northern Canada, the coasts of western Scotland, southern Africa, Australia, and the northwest coast of the United States.
Alternative energy is widely available and has become very user friendly in recent years. It is a viable way for a person to become more self sufficient while doing their own part to minimize the pressure on the Earth as well as reduce the depletion of fossil fuels and eliminate our reliance upon foreign countries for our energy needs.
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