Combat the Global Warming by Generating RenewableSources of Energy

Abstract

Global warming is the increase in average temperature of thetheearth’s surface air and oceans. Most of the observed temperature increase is caused by increased concentration of greenhouse gases. Major gases are water vapor (36-70%), carbon dioxide (9-26 %), Methane (4- 9 %) and Ozone (3- 7 %).

Electricity generation accounts for more than 50 % Global Warming emission (8) with the majority generated by coal fired power plants in the world. Natural gas power plants produce more than 10 % total emission on the earth. In contrast to this most renewable energy sources produce very little global warming effects.

The natural gas emits CO2 between 0.6 to 2 pounds carbon dioxide equivalents / kwh, coal emits CO2  between 1.4 to 3.6 pounds equivalents /kwh. Wind emits 0.02 to 0.04 pounds of CO2  /kwh. Solar emits 0.07 to 0.2 pounds CO2 /kwh, Geothermal 0.1 to 0.2 pounds/ kwh, and hydro power 0.1 to 0.5 pounds CO2 / kwh. (8) Electricity generation from Biomass can have a wide range of Global Warming Emission depending on methods of harvesting. Thus the supply of renewable energy would allow us to replace carbon intensive energy sources significantly in the world.

Here in this article the author has made an attempt to bring out the status of renewable sources of energy like Hydro power, Solar and Wind energy and their contribution to combat the effects of environmental degradation. A special emphasis has been given in respect of Indian context.