Alternative energy sources are those that produce energy without the harmful or damaging by-products that are produced when fossil fuels are burned. Wind power, hydropower, and solar power are the most common alternative energy sources, though other types of energy sources fall under the umbrella term of alternative energy. The goal of looking for such sources is to combat issues like climate change, also known as global warming, and to replace energy sources that may dry up or run out in the future. Part of the issue with alternative energy sources is their ability to be developed at a reasonable cost.
One of the most widely used alternative energy sources is wind power. Large wind towers with blades that turn in the wind can be used to generate electricity. The rotating blades can power an energy cell, which can then be fed into the general power grid. In most cases, these wind towers must be located in wide open areas so that enough wind can reach the blades; nearby residents occasionally complain about the towers’ noise as well as the aesthetic appeal, or lack thereof, of a wind farm. Proponents argue that while this clean energy source is a viable option for producing large amounts of energy, transferring that energy to the power grid can be costly.
The sun’s rays are used to generate energy in solar power. Solar power, like other alternative energy sources, is a very clean source of energy, but harvesting the sun’s rays can be expensive. Solar panels are required to complete this task, and while they are generally efficient, they are difficult to install properly and the materials are costly. Even if the system saves the homeowner money in the long run, installing solar panels on a private residence can be prohibitively expensive. Homeowners are frequently put off by the upfront costs.
The use of flowing water to generate energy is known as hydroelectric power. Dams on rivers and other waterways are frequently constructed to provide alternative energy sources for cities and towns. Although water is a great source of energy because it flows endlessly in most cases, damming a river or stream can cause ecosystem problems along the waterway. In a river, fish and other wildlife may be harmed, and soil erosion is common. Dams are also costly to construct and maintain.