Non-conventional source of energy (Renewable energy) (Geography)

Non-conventional sources of energy are also called Renewable sources of energy.

Non-Conventional sources of energy are those which are renewable, in exhaustible, ecofriendly, less expensive and easy to maintain.

Examples:

• Solar energy
• Wind energy
• Bio gas energy
• Tidal energy
• Geothermal energy

Solar Energy

Sun is the primary source of energy. It provides us enormous amounts of energy in the form of solar radiation reaching the surface if the earth.

Three devices used to harness solar energy: Solar cells, solar cooker, and solar water heater.

Advantages of Solar energy:

• Solar energy is a renewable source of energy.
• It does not cause any pollution.
• It requires less maintenance.

Disadvantages of solar energy:

• Solar energy cannot be generated during the night and cloudy days.
• Installing solar panels is quite expensive.

Read more on solar energy here

Wind Energy

Wind is an inexpensive reliable and non polluting source of energy.

Advantages of Wind energy:

• Wind energy is a renewable source of energy.
• It does not cause any pollution.
• It is an inexpensive source of energy.

Disadvantages of Wind energy:

• Wind energy cannot be always generated.
• Cyclonic wind may destruct the windmill.

Biogas Energy

Biogas is based on the use of garbage and dung to produce gas.

Advantages of Biogas:

• Biogas is a clean, non- polluting source of energy
• Biogas plant solves the garbage problem.
• The sludge left behind is used as rich manure.

Disadvantage of Biogas:

• Higher cost of production.
• Biogas plant requires a large area for its installation

Tidal Energy:

The rise and fall of water produces energy called Tidal energy. Gulf of Kutch in India provides ideal conditions for generating tidal energy.

Advantages of Tidal energy:

• Tidal energy is renewable sources of energy.
• It is environmental friendly
• It can be generated even if the water moves at low speed

Geothermal Energy:

Energy that exists in the form of heat inside the earth is called Geothermal.

Advantages of Geothermal Energy:

• It can be stored.
• It is endless.
• It does not need fuel to generate.

Disadvantages of Geothermal Energy:

• Installation of Geothermal energy plant is expensive.
• Emission of poisonous gases may be harmful.
• It causes pollution