Environmental Benefits of Renewable Energy Sources

Environmental Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy is clean, widespread, and renewable. Various technologies capture this solar energy, concentrate it, store it, and convert it into other useful forms of energy. Solar energy technologies have great potential to benefit our nation. They can:

•  Diversify our energy supply

•  Reduce our dependence on imported fuels

•  Improve the quality of the air we breathe

•  Offset greenhouse gas emissions

•  Stimulate our economy by creating jobs in the manufacturing and installation of solar energy systems.

Environmental Benefits of Biomass Energy

Biomass electricity is typically generated through boiler/steam turbine plants, but with three key differences: the fuel is renewable, there is less than 0.1% sulfur (an acid rain ingredient) in biomass fuels, and less air pollutants are produced.

Environmental Benefits of Geothermal Energy

Geothermal energy is clean, sustainable energy. As a result, the use of geothermal energy helps keep our air and water clean. The use of geothermal energy also greatly minimizes the amount of resulting solid waste and land required for energy production.

Environmental Benefits of Wind Energy

Wind energy systems provide a cushion against electricity price increases. Wind energy systems reduce U.S. dependence on fossil fuels, and they don't emit greenhouse gases. Wind energy is economically competitive. Unlike most other electricity generation sources, wind turbines don't consume water. Wind energy is a homegrown energy source that contributes to national security and can be used in a variety of applications. Wind energy is inexhaustible, infinitely renewable and has many environmental benefits. Because wind energy's "fuel" is free, it reduces the risk associated with uncertain fossil fuel prices.