Solar energy is one of the most effective forms of renewable energy. The technology is gaining in popularity day by day. Businesses and inviduals take advantage of solar energy by installed solar panels that convert sunlight into energy that powers homes and offices. Solar energy does not run out until the sun sets. Solar energy cannot be used up like fossil fuels such as natural gas, oil and coal. Solar energy helps reduce the reliance of fossil fuels, which emit greenhouse gases and carcinogens.
Like solar energy, wind power is one of the forms of renewable energy, as it does not run out. Wind turbines used to produce electricity also decrease our use of fossil fuels. This form of energy also produces no form of harmful waste. As a result, it is one of the cleanest sources of power available. Wind power reduces the amount of carbon dioxide produced, along with sulfur dioxide. The reduction of sulfur dioxide benefits the environment because it reduces the amount of acid rain.
Biodiesel is a clean burning alternative fuel made from renewable resources. The fuel is used in diesel engines without major modifications. Biodiesel is biodegradable and nontoxic. Biodiesel fuel can be used as a pure fuel or it can be blended with petroleum of any amount. According to Biodiesel.org, the fuel is "the best greenhouse gas mitigation strategy for today's medium and heavy duty vehicles." Consumers can buy biodiesel fuel from numerous sites across the United States. Existing diesel engines can take biodiesel blends of up to 20-percent without any major engine modification.
Geothermal energy is produced by capturing steam from deep holes in Earth's crust. The steam is to power electricity generators. Unlike most other power stations, geothermal systems do not create any pollution. Any harmful gases released from the earth can be largely contained. Because no fuel is used, the cost of running these plants is low.