Renewable energy uses the natural power of the sun, of wind and of flowing water to generate energy. It also enables the utilisation of energy contained in plants and released from many kinds of waste material, even making use of natural heat trapped just below the ground beneath us. Click on the links to the left to find out more about some of the available technologies.
Since all these resources occur naturally or as by-products of human activity, they are renewable and therefore not using fuels such as oil and coal which are limited in supply.
Rainwater – although variable and unpredictable – is a natural resource which, with appropriate systems can be collected and stored for use at a later date both to reduce the cost of commercially supplied water and also to increase the availability of water during times of shortage. The link on the left will take you to further information.
Just as important, the technologies available to harness these natural resources significant reduce the harmful carbon (CO2) emissions pumped into the atmosphere by conventional “fossil fuel” energy sources. Solar and wind technologies, for example, are carbon free. Where plant material is used to produce “bio-energy” this is considered to be “carbon neutral” as the CO2 released in the production of energy is offset by the absorption of CO2 from the atmosphere in the process of growth and re-growth of the plants.
Most of these naturally occurring resources have no intrinsic cost – eg the sun, the wind, rivers and waves are literally priceless! However, the technology required to turn these free resources into energy that we can use does have a cost attached to it. Similarly, the integration of these technologies into local domestic, commercial or industrial systems also has to be paid for.
If the appropriate technology is matched to an energy users requirements and circumstances, potentially substantial savings can be made over the cost of conventional energy. New opportunities will arise as technologies continue to evolve and associated costs fall over time. Once installed, of course, the uncertainties over future energy costs and supply are largely eliminated.
Watt-Knots provides independent advice on identifying the most appropriate renewable technology – or mix of technologies – and ensuring effective and efficient implementation. Equally, we will help you avoid the costly mistakes and frustration that can result from making the wrong decisions or selecting “unsuitable” suppliers. We’re always happy to discuss your needs or questions, without any obligation.
