Back to: Jss1 Basic Science (BST)

Introduction

In the last lesson, you learned about where energy comes from and how it can be used. In this topic, you will learn about the two main types of energy: energy that can be used again and again (renewable energy) and energy that can’t be used again (non-renewable energy).

Meaning of Renewable Energy

Renewable energy comes from sources that naturally get more energy when they are used up. This means that clean energy can be made as many times as needed. Most renewable energy sources have low carbon emissions, so they are considered to be good for the environment.

Examples Of Renewable Energy

Here are some examples of renewable energy:

• Wind energy is the energy that comes from the wind.
• Hydropower is energy that comes from water.
• Bioenergy is energy that comes from biological (living things) sources like wood and manure.
• Geothermal energy is the heat energy that is made and stored on the earth.

Uses Of Renewable Energy

• Using a wind turbine to make electricity and a windmill to grind grains are two ways that wind energy can be put to use.
• Hydropower energy can be used to make electricity. For example, a dam 
• Bioenergy, which comes from things like cassava and sewage, can be used to make electricity.
• Solar energy is energy that comes from the sun.
• You can use renewable energy in the following ways:
• Solar energy can be used to light and heat homes, make electricity, and even dry things.

Non- Renewable Energy

Non-renewable energy comes from sources that can’t be used again after being used up. This means that non-renewable resources can’t be made as needed.

Examples and Uses Of Non-renewable Energy

Non-renewable energy sources include 

• Coal is used to make steel and electricity. 
• Petroleum products like gasoline, diesel, and kerosene are used to cook and fuel cars. 
• Natural gas, which is mostly methane, is used to heat buildings and power electric generators.

Misuse of non-renewable energy

Non-renewable energy sources like coal, oil, and natural gas will run out over time, but renewable energy sources can be made again. Also, mining for nonrenewable energy sources like fossil fuels hurts the environment.