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Eco-Nomics ››
Green Energy ››
Renewable Energy Sources
Renewable Energy Sources
Much of the world's current energy supply comes from fossil fuels such as petroleum, coal, methane,
propane, natural gas and other non-renewable resources, which are rapidly being depleted. The burning
of fossil fuels is also the largest source of CO2 emissions worldwide, producing other air
pollutants as well, including carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, VOCs (volatile organic
compounds) and heavy metals.
In addition, many of the major fossil fuel sources are only found in foreign countries, which are
often all too quick in taking advantage of another country's dependency on them for such resources.
Throughout history, we have seen time and again what a lack of energy independence can do to a country,
from wars and monopolization to inflations, depressions and oppression. Not only might foreign countries
use energy dependence as a tool to manipulate, but our own governments have in the past and may in the
future decide to silently use energy dependency as a tool against the People for none other than power
and greed. But we don't have to play that game because we have a choice. We can turn to nature for our
energy needs.
Stirling Energy
Stirling energy is collected and produced by converting heat into power via a Stirling heat engine.
A stirling engine is a closed-cycle, external combustion heat engine that works by making use of a
difference in temperatures to expand and contract a fixed amount of gas (usually air, hydrogen or helium),
thereby converting heat energy into mechanical power. The greater the temperature difference, the more
power that can be produced... and the heat source can be a renewable one. Stirling engines can also run
on a cold source instead, so long as there is a temperature difference. They can be used for heating,
electricity, pumping water, as a heat pump, they can be run in reverse for cooling, refrigeration, freezing
and cryogenics, they can even power ships and aircraft.
Solar Energy
The Earth receives more solar energy every minute than the world uses in fossil fuels every year. It is
eco-friendly, free for the taking, and can be used in a wide variety of applications including passive
solar heating and cooling, solar cooking, solar lighting, solar electricity, solar ponds, solar distillation,
solar desalination and more. Solar energy is best taken advantage of during the day and the summer months for
direct use, but as with most other renewable energy production methods, the energy collected can be stored for
later use.
Hydroelectric Energy
Hydro-electricity accounts for roughly 20% of all electricity used and produced, worldwide. Hydroelectric systems
can be on or off-grid and as small or as large as needed, but the water source is most often as close to the point
of use as possible. Electricity is produced using dammed water to drive a water turbine and generator, or via the
use of a running water source such as a river, creek, ocean tides or water falls. Hydroelectricity can power an
entire household, but it is generally most suitable for land owners with sufficient space and water to drive the
system.
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