Solar Energy: The heat and light produced by the Sun provide an
enormous source of energy. A number of technologies, such as
photovoltaic (PV) cells, have been developed to harness this energy so
it can be used as a power source for generating electricity and heat
(solar heating).
Wind and Wave Energy: When the blades of a wind turbines spin, they
convert wind energy to electrical energy by means of a machine called
a generator. Wind turbines can work alone or in a group, called a wind
farm.
In a similar way, rivers and oceans can provide electric power. The
water flowing through a river dam runs generators, which produce
electricity. This is called waterpower or hydropower. Wave energy is
produced when generators are placed in an ocean. The amount of
energy depends on the size, force, and frequency of the waves.
Geothermal Energy is heat that comes from inside Earth. In some
places, such as Iceland, the heat is so close to the surface that it can be
easily used as an energy source. In other places holes must be drilled
down through rocks to reach the heat.
Nuclear energy is stored energy. It is the energy that holds together the
nucleus of an atom. Nuclear energy is also called atomic energy. The
nucleus is the central part of an atom. Nuclear energy can be released
by splitting an atom. It can also be released by joining two nuclei
together to form a single nucleus.
Hydroelectric energy, also called hydroelectric power or
hydroelectricity, is a form of energy that harnesses the power of water
in motion—such as water flowing over a waterfall—to generate
electricity.
Fossil fuels are made from decomposing plants and animals. These
fuels are found in the Earth’s crust and contain carbon and hydrogen,
which can be burned for energy. Ex: gas, and coal
Biomass/Bio fuel energy is energy generated or produced by living or
once-living organisms. The most common biomass materials used for
energy are plants, such as corn and soy, above. The energy from these
organisms can be burned to create heat or converted into electricity