What is renewable energy?

Renewable energy is an energy source that renews itself naturally and continuously. It is based on renewable natural resources such as sunlight, wind, water, geothermal energy and biomass. These energy sources never run out, unlike fossil fuels such as oil and coal, which are finite and cause harmful emissions to the environment.

The use of renewable energy is an important part of combating climate change, as it reduces dependence on fossil fuels and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. The production of renewable energy is also more environmentally friendly and sustainable than the use of traditional energy sources.

Examples of renewable energy are solar energy, wind power, hydropower, geothermal energy and bioenergy. These energy sources are useful for both large power plants and small households, and their adoption has increased significantly in recent decades.

Is renewable energy the same as environmentally friendly energy?

The two terms are closely related but not identical. “Environmentally friendly” or “clean” energy generally means a source that produces little or no harmful emissions, while “renewable” means the source itself does not run out. Most renewable sources – solar, wind, hydro and geothermal – are also low-emission, which is why the two terms are often used to mean the same thing. There are exceptions, though: nuclear power produces very low emissions but is not classified as renewable, and burning biomass is renewable but can still cause emissions depending on how it is sourced and burned.