ENERGY SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING

Energy is essential to life and all living organisms. The sun, directly or indirectly, is the source of all the energy available on Earth. Our energy choices and decisions impact Earth's natural systems in ways we may not be aware of, so it is essential that we choose our energy sources carefully. Electricity from renewable energy sources produces between 90-99% less greenhouse gases (GHGs) compared with coal-fired plants and causes 70-90% less pollution. Focusing on renewable energy sources other than fossil fuels and coals might help in avoiding environmental impacts, specifically from air pollution. Eliminating fuel costs lowers the cost of the electricity produced. It also means the price of electricity isn't susceptible to changes in the price of fuels, like it is with natural gas or coal. This may lead to more stable energy prices over the long term. Finally Renewable technologies are considered as clean sources of energy and optimal use of these resources decreases environmental impacts, produces minimum secondary waste and are sustainable based on the current and future economic and social needs.