Suntricity Power

The term “alternative energy” refers to any and all sources of usable energy which are meant to replace ordinary fuel sources without the latter’s negative consequences. Commonly, the energy source being replaced is fossil fuel whose main undesired consequence is the high emission of carbon dioxide, the major contributing factor in global warming. Alternative energy definitions may also exclude nuclear energy, but it is not very consistent.

Throughout history, many sources of energy have been used as alternatives to ordinary sources. Alternative energy sources typically are less harmful to the environment are also less exhaustible or less expensive than the ones they are supposed to replace. The earliest form of alternative energy source is coal, which was intended to replace wood. Wood had been overused during the early periods in history. Overconsumption of wood contributed to catastrophes like floods and landslides which made people turn to other sources–coal. Coal, even though it was cheaper and had more available supplies, was, however, not a very good alternative source since it caused too much pollution.

Another source considered to be “alternative” back then was petroleum, which was intended to replace whale oil. It was used as an alternative for reasons the same as coal: it is cheaper and had more supplies. Nowadays, however, petroleum and coal are the main energy sources being replaced. Petroleum and coal have been found out to contribute significantly to global warming. Preservation of the environment is now the major concern of people in wanting to replace existing energy sources.

Early Alternative Energy Sources

One of the earliest (and still existing) sources of alternative energy in lieu of petroleum and coal is ethanol fuel. Ethanol fuel is derived from corn and other food products like sugar cane. This energy source is advantageous since it is more renewable than petroleum, less expensive and more environment-friendly. Ethanol can be burned more efficiently so less carbon is released to the environment.

Modern Alternative Energy Sources

The newest form of alternative energy is the so-called renewable energy. Renewable energy refers to energy generated from sources that can naturally be replenished–sunlight, geothermal heat, tides, rain and wind. These natural resources are harnessed using technologies which not only cost lower than petroleum (common energy source) but are also more environment-friendly. Technologies used for harnessing solar energy, wind power hydropower are basically pollution-free when operating.

In transportation, alternative energy sources are constantly being developed in order to counter the continually increasing prices and harm of fossil fuels. There are now vehicles which can operate using water instead of gas. There are also vehicles that use electric batteries.

The main aim of using alternative energy is to preserve the environment while saving a considerable amount of money. Most means of producing alternative energy involve simple processes unlike traditional energy sources which involve complex equipment o deal with complex physical and chemical processes. This simplicity results to less byproducts (like carbon dioxide and other toxic wastes) making the alternative sources more environment-friendly. Also, simplicity means less operating costs which further translates to lower alternative energy prices.