If you’re an environmentally-conscious individual, you’re likely familiar with the concept of renewable energy. Renewable energy refers to energy produced from a source that does not deplete when used or can quickly replenish. Common sources of renewable energy include wind, solar, hydropower, and geothermal. Such forms of energy have numerous benefits on the environment and those who inhabit it. To learn more about the importance of renewable energy sources, continue reading.
Decreased production of greenhouse gases
Electricity production is the leading source of greenhouse gas production. Greenhouse gases include carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide among several other harmful gases. Such gases have many negative environmental impacts such as climate change, droughts, and wildfires. In addition, they negatively affect the health of those who become exposed to them and may lead to respiratory diseases, neurological damage, and cancer. By utilizing renewable energy sources in place of energy sources that emit such harmful gases, we can reduce their presence in our atmosphere.
Reduced dependence on finite resources
Currently, we depend heavily on resources such as oil and coal for our energy production. However, such resources are finite and won’t last forever, especially at the increasing rate we use them. As such, it’s important to diversify our energy supply to find a more long-term solution to satisfy our increasing energy demands.
Stabilized energy costs
As the finite resources we use to produce energy decrease, the cost of energy continues to increase to offset the demand. By relying on energy sources that won’t diminish, it will stabilize the cost of energy. Further, experts even predict it will decline over time as advancements in renewable energy technology, such as smart grid communication network equipment, help improve efficiency.
Job creation
On average, the process of producing renewable energy employs more people than the production of energy from fossil fuels. This difference in employment opportunities is because fossil fuel technologies boast mechanized features while the renewable energy industry requires more manual labor. As such, the advancement of renewable energy sources can help spur economic development by providing manufacturing, installation, and maintenance jobs.