Alternative & Renewable Energy

WHY ALTERNATIVE AND RENEWABLE ENERGY?

Energy is a big part of our lives. It is purchased and used in the forms of electricity, automotive fuel, and heating fuel. A lot of the sources include fossil fuels, carbon based structures. Many of the decisions for production and use are based on economics – but there is a renewed interest of looking into other aspects of energy production and fuels used. Carbon footprint, availability of resources, contribution to the greenhouse effect, health impacts, small scale independence, and total efficiency are some of the areas of interest.

It is important for students to understand current production methods as well as alternative methods – of which some use renewable resources. With data and understanding of processes and total costs, informed decisions can be made regarding viability as well as more effective methods and outcomes. The study of electricity production, bio fuels, aerobic and anaerobic processes for fuel production – as well as energy efficiency measures – are all very important for energy professionals, technicians, scientists, and those that implement various technologies in structures and vehicles.