Clean energy, derived from renewable sources with zero emissions, is a term often used but one that isn’t always fully understood. And with the crossover between clean energy and green, or renewable, energy, it’s easy to see why confusion may arise when attempting to define it.
While most people associate solar energy with clean energy, for example (and they wouldn’t necessarily be wrong), it can be more precisely referred to as ‘green energy.’ So, before you make the switch to solar with help from a local solar company in Calgary, let’s clarify the difference between the two terms.
Clean, green, and renewable energy, by definition
When energy is derived from a source that doesn’t release pollutants into the air, it is known as clean energy. By contrast, when energy is derived from a natural source, it is known as green energy. These two terms are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle difference between the two that lies in the concept of renewable energy.
Generated from a source that is always being replenished, and hence will never run out (unlike fossil fuels and gas), renewable energy can come from sources like the sun and wind. While many clean energy sources can be classified as renewable, not all of them can be classified as green. Take hydropower as an example: it is a renewable source, but it could be argued that it isn’t green, as industrialization and deforestation involved in the construction of hydro dams can have a significantly negative impact on the environment.
When green and renewable energy types like wind and solar meet, this is an ideal blend for clean energy.
How does clean energy work?
When power is produced without causing any harm to the environment, it is clean energy, much of which may also be renewable, such as solar and wind power.
Why should you care about clean energy?
If we want to preserve energy sources for the future, we must protect the environment as best we can, and clean energy does this very well. In addition to preserving natural resources around the world, clean energy also reduces the risk of disasters such as gas leaks and fuel spills, which can have a devastating impact on the environment.
How clean is clean energy?
It’s important to keep in mind that, although often placed in the same category as clean energy, some renewable energy sources cannot be defined as such. Take the burning of wood from a forest that is being sustainably managed and yet releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
True clean energy must have zero costs when it comes to carbon production and storage, as is the case with solar and wind power, both of which are classified as being wholly clean and wholly renewable.
If you want to start generating your own truly clean energy at home or at your place of work, solar panel installation in Calgary is a great place to start. And as the push towards a more sustainable future continues apace, clean energy solutions will soon be the only option if we’re to preserve the planet for generations to come.
