3. Solar and Wind energy

1. Renewable resources
2. Non - renewable resources

A resource that is continuously renewed or replenished naturally is called a renewable resource. Renewable resources that are harvested and used rationally will not pollute the environment. With fast depleting fossil fuels, the usage of renewable energy sources and renewable resources is increasing worldwide.

We get energy from the sun in the form of heat and light. Solar energy is not harmful to the environment. Solar energy is converted into electricity directly using Photovoltaic devices or solar cells. An individual solar cell in a group panel based on size can perform applications ranging from charging calculators, watch batteries to powering residential buildings. Photovoltaic power plants and concentrating solar power plants are the largest solar applications covering acres.
Major utilizers of solar energy in the world: India, China, Japan, Italy and the States of America.

Wind power or wind energy is used to generate mechanical power or electricity. Wind turbines convert the kinetic energy in the wind into mechanical power. It is a clean source of energy. With the technical advancements in recent years, harnessing wind energy has become one of the most economical and renewable energy technologies.

 

Centuries ago, the Classic Dutch windmill harnessed the wind’s energy. Dotting the landscape today, modern wind turbines with three blades turns wind into electricity.
Major wind energy-producing countries are United States, China, Germany, Spain, India, United Kingdom, Canada and Brazil.