When you think about green energy, what comes to mind? Some people might think of solar panels while others see wind turbines. However, these are just two types of green energy widely used across the globe. If you’ve ever wondered what the most popular types of green energy are, read on.
Solar Energy
In 2020, solar energy was responsible for 3.3% of the U.S.’s power. That may not seem like much, but it’s grown exponentially in the past decade and is the fastest-growing type of green energy in the country. While the reason for this growth varies, the creation of low-cost solar panels for buildings and solar tax breaks are two of the major boosts to the popularity of this renewable energy.
Wind Energy
Wind power is the most common type of green energy across the U.S., providing 8.4% of the country’s power as of 2020. While giant wind farms are most synonymous with the West and Midwest, small-scale wind turbines and tax subsidies have caused this type of energy to become more popular in the residential sector.
Hydropower
Accounting for 7.3% of the nation’s total power supply, hydropower was perhaps the first green energy source to become widely adopted in the U.S. and abroad. It’s also one of the oldest types of renewable energy. In 1882, the first hydroelectric dam opened in Appleton, Wisconsin, on the Fox River. Today, hydropower continues to expand into rural areas.
Tidal Energy
Although less popular than hydropower from dams and rivers, tidal energy is a form of hydropower that harnesses the power of tides. When the tide recedes and advances, generators turn the moving sea into green energy. Although tidal power is predictable in terms of when it occurs, it also only happens twice a day, making it less robust than other forms of green energy.
Geothermal Energy
Geothermal energy utilizes the heat from beneath the Earth’s surface to create power. In industrial applications, power plants use this heat to create steam which then powers turbines.
However, geothermal systems have become a popular source to heat and cool homes. Because the ground under the surface stays at a consistent temperature between 50 and 60 degrees, geothermal systems heat and cool air that’s not exposed to extremes, allowing less energy usage to provide air conditioning or heating.
How to Choose the Right Green Energy
Now that you’re a bit more familiar with the various types of green energy, you may be considering it for your home or business. However, choosing the right option isn’t always easy, especially if you’ve never used green energy solutions before.
That’s when a green energy consultant can help. At 3 Phases Renewables we are focused on renewable energy solutions for businesses, with experience in the industry, loads of green energy options, and a roadmap from start to finish, you can make the best choice for your green energy needs. Contact us to discuss today.