Defining Energy Sources
Create an overview of the definitions and attributes of various energy generation sources. Energy sources can be classified in different ways for a variety of purposes, including but not limited to environmental impact, conversion technology, feedstock attributes or operating characteristics. These classifications can affect whether or not an energy resource qualifies for financial incentives or whether it meets a variety of regulatory requirements (including Renewable Portfolio Standards, for example).
Conventional: Refers to energy resources and technologies that are commonly used, widely available and cost effective in current circumstances such as coal, natural gas, nuclear power, hydroelectric power, petroleum, propane and possibly others.
Alternative: In contrast to conventional energy resources and technologies, "alternative" refers to resources and technologies that may not be mature, widely utilized or (potentially) cost effective. Additionally, alternative energy resources and technologies are often designed to supplement or supplant a conventional energy resource, providing the same service in a different way such using ethanol to replace petroleum-based gasoline.
Renewable: Energy resources that cannot be exhausted at current or anticipated rates of consumption. While fossil based fuels could ultimately be depleted to a point at which it is economically or technically unfeasible to extract any more, resources including solar, wind, geothermal, tidal, ocean thermal and in most circumstances, biomass energy sources can be replenished rapidly enough to maintain what is effectively an infinite energy supply.
Clean: Most commonly refers to the lack of harmful air emissions, including carbon dioxide, from energy production. This term is often used to compare energy resources and intended to demonstrate a lower rate or absolute amount of emissions/waste rather than a complete absence of these by-products.
Specific energy resources may fall in to more than one of the above categories. For example hydroelectric power is considered a conventional, but renewable energy resource. Solar energy is an alternative, renewable resource. Nuclear energy would most likely simply be considered a conventional resource.
RATIONALE
Energy generation sources such as coal, natural gas, solar or wind can be classified in different ways in different situations. Terms such as conventional, clean, renewable or alternative may not include the same energy resources in all situations. It is important to understand how these terms are used as well as the attributes of each energy source to ensure that it meets the needs of your community.
BENEFIT
Understanding the attributes of various energy sources can ensure you make informed decisions.
RISKS
Achieving consensus on which energy sources should be included in broad categories such as "clean," "green" or "alternative" can be challenging.
ACTION AGENT(S)
Sustainability officers, other local decision makers, general public.
COST
There are minimal costs in educating yourself and your community on the attributes of various energy sources. Most relevant information is easily found online.
Energy that comes from sources that are not depleted by use. Examples include energy from the sun, wind, and small (low-impact) hydropower, plus geothermal energy and wave and tidal systems.A liquid produced from the chemical fermentation of sugars in plant materials. The liquid is consumed in alcoholic drinks, used as fuel, and added to gasoline as a fuel enhancer.Plant or animal byproduct material that can be converted to produce energy (electricity, fuel, etc). Typically, the biomass is burned or chemically processed to produce energy. The ability or potential of a physical body to do work. The most common forms of energy are heat, light, mechanical (moving parts), and electrical.
