Green energy is a general term for a variety of technologies for generating electricity not based on fossil fuels such as oil, coal, or natural gas.
In other words, “green” energy saves carbon dioxide emissions, reduces environmental pollution and prevents the expansion of the greenhouse effect.
Under the umbrella of green energy are several main types Solar energy produced by solar panels that capture sunlight.
Wind energy produced by wind turbines.
Water (hydraulic) energy produced by utilizing the movement of water.
Are civil nuclear reactors or natural gas also considered green energy?
There is debate about including two additional types of energy under the title “green energy” nuclear energy produced in modern civil reactors and turbines using natural gas that do not emit a high level of carbon dioxide.
At the end of 2022, the European Union announced that it would include these two technological solutions as part of environmentally friendly investment packages, but the move was criticized by environmental organizations on the continent.
Opponents argued that nuclear energy, besides the risk involved, requires the disposal of radioactive waste.
Regarding natural gas, it was claimed that pipelines in this technology emit methane gas that harms the atmosphere much more than carbon dioxide.
Some environmental activists noted that the announcement was made at a “strategic” time, about two hours before the end of the calendar year, to reduce media attention and criticism.
In July 2022, the European Parliament approved the measure and rejected the objections.
In regions far from fully realizing their green energy potential, only about 10% of the local electricity supply comes from sources other than fossil fuels or natural gas.
Electricity production from green energy varies from country to country depending on climate conditions and geographical circumstances.
Advantages of green energy Green energy offers many advantages.
Since these are complex aspects that can change depending on policy and technological developments, some key points are highlighted Reducing the use (and dependence) on fossil fuels and natural gas
The main advantage of green energy is that it serves as an effective substitute for fossil fuels, significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions and slowing the expansion of the greenhouse effect. Dual use of land An important advantage of green energy, especially solar energy, is the ability to be produced using “dual-use” methods.
Reducing electricity costs for consumers
Dependence on fossil fuels increases electricity costs.
For example, recent data estimated that about 90% of the electricity price increase was due to rising fossil fuel prices.
Renewable, inexhaustible sources Green energy, unlike energy produced from fossil resources (coal, oil, or natural gas), is based on renewable sources.
Energy reserves are not exhausted, unlike coal, gas and oil, which are expected to run out in about 50 years (coal in about 100 years).
Energy independence Producing green energy based on local resources significantly reduces dependence on other countries.
This is an easily understandable advantage in areas that are energy islands and do not maintain diplomatic relations with some major oil-producing countries.
Electricity accessibility to remote areas
Many regions in the world lack proper electricity infrastructure.
Green energy facilities can help provide electricity even to isolated areas in developing countries. Challenges in expanding green energy In a world addicted to fossil fuels, the adoption of green energy is sometimes delayed simply due to the need to invest significant amounts in building new production facilities.
Each country faces specific barriers, from the availability of natural resources to the structure of the local electricity market, including centralization, interconnection with neighboring electricity systems, and even political and geopolitical matters.
The difference between green energy and solar energy
Not every green energy facility is a solar facility. Globally, the most common renewable energy today is hydropower.
In countries with strong, long-lasting sunlight, solar energy is usually the preferred option due to its relative advantages compared to other green energy technologies.
Recently, there has been growth in the agro-PV field, which allows the installation of solar systems even above active agricultural areas such as orchards and fields.
Recommended green energy solutions Green energy is not a single solution different solutions suit different needs.
Beyond the availability of energy sources in the target region, other differences should be considered. Wind turbines generate electricity equivalent to many solar panels but cannot be installed in urban areas.
Wind energy infrastructure occupies open spaces, can harm wildlife (mainly birds and is far from urban areas where it is needed.
Solar energy, on the other hand, is an effective solution for producing green energy even in populated areas and city centers.
Wind turbines are not intended for private installation and almost always depend on government-level operations.
In contrast, solar energy is an excellent green energy solution that private sectors, including homeowners, can adopt.
Despite all the advantages, fully realizing its potential is still far away.
Various technologies exist and each country must adapt the right solutions for its needs.