Free energy exists, although it’s not free to convert into a form we can use. Renewable energy, much cleaner than energy from fossil fuel, is as close to free energy as things get today, with solar, wind, water and geothermal among the most effective.
The beauty of such free energy sources is that they exist in nature. There is no need to mine, ignite, dredge or frack. The key to tapping into these sources is finding ways to convert free energy into a form that meets power needs.
The need for better energy is clear. A majority of scientists agree that burning fossils fuels contributes to global warming. The resulting climate change helps create more severe weather, such as powerful hurricanes and higher sea levels.
And even for those who don’t think climate change is caused in part by humans, there is no doubt that fossil fuel is a finite resource. Oil, natural gas – it’s going to run out, one day. And long before that day, prices for the reduced supply will make gas a niche item bought only by those with a lot of cash.
Better alternatives are needed. Here are some of the most used renewable sources. All are provided free by nature.
Solar
The most amazing source of energy sits at the center of our solar system. The sun generates so much energy that it would take exploding 100 billion tons of dynamite every second to match what it produces. Converting what the sun produces into usable energy is an ongoing process, but more homes use continue to add solar panels. And the sun is not expected to run out of energy for about 5 billion years. Maybe by then, we can know how to tap into the energy from the other 100 billion stars in the Milky Way.
Wind
You may notice entire hillsides covered with wind turbines, especially if you drive through West Texas or parts of California. Wind is generated by the Earth’s rotation and differences in air pressure. As with all sources of free energy provided by nature, the trick is in converting the wind’s energy into something that can be used by humans. Wind turbines accomplish that task.
Water
Hydroelectric dams have been in use for decades. They take the energy created by rushing water and convert it into electricity that can be used in homes. Typically, the dam traps water in a reservoir. When released, the rushing water spins a turbine that activates a generator that produces electricity. Wave energy is another means of producing power from water. Generators placed on the surface of the ocean are powered by waves that flow through them.
Geothermal
Inside the Earth is a core of geothermal energy. Just consider the power of a volcano, a dramatic example of geothermal matter bursting to the surface. Power plants on the surface tap into geothermal energy by accessing steam or water reserves inside of the Earth. The resulting heat drives electricity generators.
These are some of the major free, renewable energy sources provided by the Earth itself. Because they produce energy at lower rates than combusting fossil fuel, using them may require changes in society. But they certainly help the planet’s overall health and provide much more sustainable energy.
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