2. Renewable energy usage in the last decade Since the year 2000 the amount of renewable energy used has gone up drastically. From a nearly immeasurable amount in 2000 to almost 10 million in 2008.
18. Solar power Solar power is created by collecting sunlight and converting it into electricity This process is called photovoltaic This is done by using solar panels, which are solar cells made from silicone that absorb the sun’s radiation The equipment for this process has no moving parts Little maintenance No emissions No noise
19. Biomass Versatile form of renewable energy Burn fuel in boilers to heat water to turn a steam turbine which creates electricity Biomass fuel Wood Landfill trash Agricultural waste Wheat, corn, and other crops Burning Biomass is an alternative to burning coal Contains little sulfur and nitrogen, so it does not produce the pollutants that cause acid rain.