Resource consumption - energy types Flashcards
(18 cards)
How does solar energy work?
Converts sunlight into electricity via photovoltaic cells or mirrors that concentrate solar radiation.
What recent improvements are there to solar panels?
Bifacial panels
What is the advantage of solar energy?
Cheapest new energy source in the US
How does wind energy work?
Wind turns blades, spinning a rotor connected to a generator using electromagnetic induction.
What recent improvements are there to wind turbines?
Taller towers, longer blades
What is the advantage and potential for wind energy?
Projected 36% of global electricity by 2050
How does Wave & Tidal Energy work?
Tides and waves move turbines or flexing devices (like attenuators) to generate electricity.
What innovations are happening with tidal energy?
In-stream turbines, tidal barrages, lagoons; only one major station in North America.
What is the potential for wave energy?
Projected to grow from 0.0004% to 0.28% globally by 2050.
How does geothermal energy work?
Heat from Earth’s crust drives turbines or provides direct heating.
What innovations are taking place for geothermal energy?
Metal recovery from ash, improved energy storage under development.
What is the potential for geothermal energy?
<1% of global electricity now; could reach 5–8% by 2050
How do Hydrogen Fuel Cells work?
Hydrogen + oxygen generate electricity, heat, and water through electrochemical reactions.
What innovations are taking place for Hydrogen Fuel Cells?
Proton exchange membranes, cogeneration for up to 85% efficiency.
What is the potential of hydrogen fuel cells?
Projected 8% of global energy mix by 2050; cost to drop 30% by 2030; used in transport, backup power.
How does bioenergy work?
Biomass (plants, waste) converted via combustion, fermentation, or heat into electricity or fuel.
What innovations are taking place for bioenergy?
Algae-based biofuels, modified enzymes, hydrothermal liquefaction.
What is the potential of bioenergy?
Could power 7 million homes in the US.
