Renewable Energy

The climate change debate has been controversial and divisive for the past few decades. This book aims to address both sides of the argument and introduce the reader to a solution that may unite both camps. The solution is Renewable Energy. It is clean, affordable, and increasingly reliable. Renewable energy has been utilized since ancient times. Wind power for sailing boats and grinding grain, water for powering mills and irrigation, and geothermal spas for therapeutic healing. Today, renewable energy sources are used to generate electricity. Government incentives and technological advances have led to a cost reduction of seventy to ninety percent in just three decades. Currently, renewable energy is the cheapest source of electricity. In addition, renewable energy accounts for nearly fifty percent of all employment in the energy sector; very impressive considering the lack of commitment to the industry. The second half of this book focuses on the history and development of technologies such as hydropower, solar power, wind power, geothermal energy, and biomass energy. The author highlights the key moments in history that have played a role in advancing renewable energy technologies. By showcasing the contributions from the past, the author aims to raise awareness of a time-tested technology that remains untapped. Additionally, this book serves as an introduction to the technical and engineering works of the many different types of renewable energy sources. It is a must-read for anyone interested in learning more about the history, science, and engineering behind renewable energy sources.