A Breakdown of Which Energy Source is Most Efficient

What are the Different Types of Energy Sources?

In today’s world, energy consumption increases by the minute. New technology and power tools and equipment are required in all aspects of our lives. Our population is also growing which is increasing the need for energy. There are a wide range of energy sources that are effective depending on the location and weather conditions.

If you’re like many people who are becoming more conscious of ecological concerns, you’re probably wondering what the best energy source is. Below, we’ve broken down the top six energy sources as well as provided a brief description of their uses and potential drawbacks.

The top 6 types of energy sources include:

• Fossil Fuels – Coal, Petroleum and natural gas are the commonly used fossil fuels. They have been used through history to provide power both for households and to drive industries. While fossil fuels are the most efficient because they are easily transported and are not dependent on weather conditions, they are not a renewable energy source. Sources of fossil fuels are depleting by the day. Fossil fuels also emit toxic gases that cause pollution, furthering the destruction of our planet.
• Hydro-Electricity – Hydroelectricity is generated from dams built on rivers that generate power using the flow of water. Transmission lines transport the generated electricity to give power to houses and commercial establishments. Hydroelectric energy is inexpensive, renewable and efficient. Hydro-electricity is an efficient source of energy especially if the rivers are snow-fed. Rains can be unpredictable, and drought conditions can affect the production of hydro-electricity in rain-fed rivers. Geologists and environmental experts have also proved that rivers are polluted and their flow is affected by dams built across them, causing further stress and harm to the environment.
• Nuclear Energy – Nuclear energy is another efficient source of energy. A process called nuclear fission is used to produce nuclear energy. The energy output by a nuclear reactor is higher than other energy producers, and a small amount of uranium can provide power for a whole city. Building nuclear power plants is very expensive. The spent fuel from a nuclear reactor is radioactive and dangerous and needs to be stored very carefully. The spent fuel does not decompose easily. Nuclear energy is not a renewable energy source, and accidents caused by nuclear reactors have historically caused widespread health hazards.
• Tidal Energy – Tidal energy is a renewable form of energy generated from the movement of tides in the ocean. It is a safe form of energy that does not emit harmful gases. Tidal power plants are long lasting and generate large amounts of energy. Building tidal power plants, however, is expensive and it has to be constructed near land. Additionally, tidal power plants manipulate the movement of the ocean and as a result harm the environment. They also give out electromagnetic emissions that are harmful to marine life.
• Wind Energy – Wind energy is generated using wind turbines. The energy generated by the turbines provides large amounts of energy to homes and commercial establishments. Installing a turbine and getting it up and running is a comparatively easy and inexpensive process. Wind energy is weather dependent. Winds are not reliable, and one cannot guarantee that the turbines can generate enough power at a given time. They can work only in a location where there is sufficient wind speed. Wind energy is a clean source of energy but not a very efficient form of energy.
• Solar Energy – Solar energy is generated by harnessing the rays of the sun. Generating solar energy does not cause pollution and is efficient for both residential and commercial use. Maintaining solar panels is easy, and most panels come with warranties for up to 25 years. The disadvantage of solar energy is that it can be generated effectively only in places that get large amounts of sunshine. If the residence or commercial establishment is in a location that is arid and gets an abundance of sunlight a company like Energy Concepts will install panels to help continuous and efficient solar power generation.

Most Efficient Energy Sources

Although there are many types of energy, the most efficient forms are renewable: hydro-thermal, tidal, wind, and solar. Solar energy has been proven to be the most efficient and effective among renewable energy sources for home and commercial use.

Why Choose Energy Concepts?

At Energy Concepts, we pride ourselves on the quality of our designs, workmanship and customer service and truly believe that solar is one of the best energy sources available to power homes and businesses. We will thoroughly explain your system and how it works. If you choose to work with us, you will see why we are one of the longest-running solar companies in Fresno.

Energy Concepts can handle all of your solar needs. If you’re interested in solar, give us a call at (559) 485-2504 or fill out an online contact form!