Knowra Renewable energy Renewable energy Energy derived from sources replenished on human timescales, including sunlight, wind, flowing water, geothermal heat, and sustainably managed biomass.
Solar photovoltaic power : Electricity generation that converts sunlight directly into electrical current using photovoltaic cells. Photovoltaic systems make sunlight a direct source of electricity.
Intermittent energy source : An energy source whose output varies with changing natural conditions or availability. Sunlight and wind availability make some renewable generation variable.
Greenhouse gas emissions : Gases released into the atmosphere that trap heat and contribute to climate change. Renewable energy can displace fossil-fuel combustion and reduce power-sector emissions.
Fossil fuel : A fuel formed from ancient organic matter, including coal, petroleum, and natural gas. Unlike renewable sources, fossil fuels are finite and release carbon dioxide when burned.
Levelized cost of energy : An estimate of the average cost of generating electricity over a plant's lifetime. It compares generation costs but can omit grid, storage, and environmental costs.
Wind power : Electricity generated by turbines that extract kinetic energy from moving air. Wind turbines convert atmospheric motion into grid power.
Energy storage : Technologies and methods that retain energy for use at a later time. Storage can shift renewable electricity from periods of surplus to periods of demand.
Life-cycle assessment : A method for evaluating environmental impacts across a product's or system's life cycle. Manufacturing, construction, operation, and disposal all affect renewable technologies' impacts.
Nuclear power : Electricity generated through nuclear reactions, chiefly fission in commercial power plants. Nuclear power is low-carbon but depends on mined fuel rather than naturally replenished flows.
Renewable portfolio standard : A policy requiring electricity suppliers to obtain a specified share of power from renewable sources. Mandates raise questions about targets, eligible technologies, and compliance design.
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