The top 5 sources of electricity are:
- Fossil Fuels (Coal, Oil, Natural Gas)
These are traditional sources of electricity. Power plants burn fossil fuels to create steam, which turns turbines connected to generators that produce electricity. While they have been the most common source, they contribute to pollution and climate change.
- Nuclear Energy
In nuclear power plants, uranium or other radioactive materials are used to generate heat through nuclear reactions. This heat turns water into steam, which drives turbines to produce electricity. It doesn't produce air pollution, but the waste needs to be carefully managed.
- Hydroelectric Power (Water)
Hydroelectric plants use the flow of water (from rivers or dams) to turn turbines. The movement of water spins the turbines, generating electricity. Itβs a renewable energy source and doesn't create direct pollution, but building dams can impact ecosystems.
- Wind Energy
Wind turbines capture windβs kinetic energy and convert it into electricity. This is a clean and renewable energy source. Wind farms can be built on land or at sea (offshore wind farms).
- Solar Power
Solar panels convert sunlight directly into electricity through a process called the photovoltaic effect. Itβs another renewable and clean energy source. Solar power is becoming more common, especially in areas with lots of sunlight.
These sources vary in terms of sustainability, environmental impact, and cost. Renewable sources like wind, solar, and hydro are growing rapidly, while fossil fuels are being phased out due to their environmental effects.
