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5/7 – Renewable energy: what it is and how it works

Renewable energy: what it is and how it works

Learn what renewable energy is, how it is different from fossil fuels, and how it can be used at home. You will also find simple steps to learn how to install photovoltaic panels.

Terms to know

  • Renewable energy = Renewable energy comes  from natural sources that are replenished at a higher rate than they are consumed. This means that they never run out. Renewable energy sources are plentiful and all around us. Examples include:
    • sunlight
    • wind
    • water
    • heat from the Earth.
  • Fossil fuels = Fossil fuels are non-renewable energy sources. They will run out over time.Examples include: 
    • coal
    • coal products
    • natural gas
    • derived gas
    • crude oil
    • petroleum products
    • non-renewable wastes
  • Greenhouse gases = Gases that trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere are called greenhouse gases. They contribute to global warming and climate change. Examples are carbon dioxides (CO2), Methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O).

Renewable energy vs Fossil fuels

There are two main differences:

Renewable energy

Availability

Renewable energy is potentially infinite. It never runs out.

Environmental impact

Renewable energy has low greenhouse gas emissions, and is useful for combating climate change.

Fossil Fuels

Availability

Fossil fuels are limited resources, and will run out.

Environmental impact

Fossil fuels produce high emissions, and increase climate change.

Examples of renewable energies

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Solar Energy

Solar energy comes from the sun.

  • Solar panels turn sunlight into electricity
  • Panels can be installed on roofs or open spaces
  • Solar energy works best during the day

Wind Energy

Wind energy uses moving air.

  • Wind turbines produce electricity
  • They are often placed in open or windy areas
  • Wind energy produces no air pollution

Hydropower

Wind energy uses moving air.

  • Electricity is produced using rivers or dams
  • It is one of the oldest renewable energy sources
  • It depends on water availability

Biomass Energy

Biomass energy comes from organic materials such as:

  • Wood
  • plant waste
  • food waste

It can be used to produce heat, electricity, or fuel.

Geothermal Energy

Geothermal energy comes from heat inside the Earth.

  • It can be used for heating and electricity
  • It is very reliable
  • It is mainly available in certain areas

Renewable Energy at Home

You can use renewable energy in your home by:

Choosing a green energy tariff

Installing solar panels

Using solar water heaters

Joining a community energy project

Ask your energy provider or an energy expert about renewable energy options.

Benefits of Renewable Energy

Renewable energy:

  • reduces greenhouse gas emissions
  • improves air quality
  • decrease energy costs on your bill

Renewable Energy and Your Energy Bill

If you use renewable energy:

  • your bill may show “green energy” or “renewable electricity”
  • some charges or incentives may apply
  • long-term costs can be lower

Always check your bill or ask your provider for details.

How to install a Solar (Photovoltaic) System

Installing photovoltaic panels can have several benefits.

Save money on energy bills

Solar panels produce electricity from sunligh: this means you buy less electricity from your supplier. Over time, this can reduce your energy bills.

Use renewable energy

Solar energy produces very low greenhouse gas emissions, and helps protect the climate. This make you a participant in the transition to more enviromentally friendly energy systems. What’s more, it will be produced locally!

Installing solar panels is a process with several steps.

Step 1

Do not do this alone

Ask:

  • a solar installer;
  • an energy expert. There are public energy organisation that can offer you free advice (local energy agency)

They will:

  • check your home;
  • explain how the system works;
  • tell you the cost.

Step 2

Choose the system

With the installer, choose:

  • how many solar panels you need;
  • the size of the system.

You can also choose:

  • a battery to store energy.

Step 3

Check the rules

Before installing:

  • check local rules;
  • ask if you need permission;
  • Check for economic bonuses.

You may get:

  • money support;
  • discounts or incentives;

Step 4

Install the solar panels

The installer will:

  • fix the panels on the roof;
  • connect the cables;
  • install the inverter.

This usually takes one or two days. After that the panels run themselves!

Step 5

 Use your solar energy

You can now:

  • use solar energy at home;
  • pay less for electricity;
  • check your energy bill (LINK).

Some systems show your energy use on a screen or app.

Step 6

 Mantain the panels

Remember to:

  • ask to professionals to wash the panels once a year in order to maximise the output;