There are often misconceptions, false information, or misunderstandings when it comes to solar and energy jargon. People assume these three types of sustainable energy solutions all merge into the same category.
However, although some overlap, there is a difference between the three. This is due to certain types of energy fitting into one category, but not necessarily into others, such as green energy sources not always being renewable.
To understand their similarities and differences, we must first clarify their definitions.
Clean Energy:
Clean energy is the production of an energy source with little to no pollution, chemicals, gases, and carbon emissions being released. This in turn helps the environment as well as the fight against climate change through the depletion of greenhouse gases. The term ‘clean’ is used to highlight the lack of negative effects that this type of energy has during its production process.
Renewable Energy:
Renewable energy sources never run out due to their sustainable production. This makes them viable long-term options for electricity production, compared to mined energy sources such as gas and coal. Gas and coal are unsustainable energies as their resources become depleted over time.
Having an infinite supply of energy resources is what makes them renewable energies. The energy made can be easily replaced but is ‘flow limited’. This is due to a lesser amount being produced at one time.
Green Energy:
If an energy source comes from something natural, such as sunlight, wind, or water, then this qualifies it as a green energy source. This type of energy comes from renewable sources and is the least environmentally harmful.
Green energy sources are mostly grouped with clean ones. As they produce little greenhouse gas emissions and do not compromise future generations.
Why are these energy sources so important?
Although subtle differences, understanding the vital importance of these energy solutions for the future of the climate is imperative. No single energy source can meet all the requirements that are needed for a sustainable future, as there are negatives to each type.
Thus, a combination of the three is the best way to move forward into a more positive landscape for climate change solutions. The overall goal is to create an environment and use an energy source with a zero-emission rate.
For this to happen successfully, everyone would have to live through a green energy source.
This is how Sunvolt can help to make this a reality. Through solar panels being a green and clean energy source, as a community we can work together to reach those climate goals.
If everyone invested in the future of the climate, for themselves and future generations; less carbon and greenhouse gas emissions would occur. This would result in the world being in a far more environmentally conscious space.