More Energy Resources

Question 1

Describe the characteristics of using wind power as a renewable energy resource.

Answer 1

• Wind rotates the blades of wind turbines, which turn the generator and produce electricity - there’s no pollution
• Running costs are minimal
• Many wind turbines are needed to produce a lot of power, so they can spoil the view and create noise pollution for people living nearby

Question 2

Describe the characteristics of using solar power as a renewable energy resource.

Answer 2

• Solar panels are made from materials that use energy transferred by light to create an electric current
• There’s no pollution
• Initial costs are high, but there are little running costs
• Used mainly to generate electricity on a small scale (e.g. for homes)

Question 3

Describe the characteristics of using hydro-electricity as a renewable energy resource.

Answer 3

• Rainwater is caught in a big dam and is allowed out through turbines, generating hydro-electricity
• There’s no pollution, but it could lead to the destruction of natural habitats for some species
• It is reliable and can immediately respond to increased electricity demand
• Initial costs are high, but running costs are minimal

Question 4

Describe the characteristics of using tidal barrages as a renewable energy resource.

Answer 4

• They are big dams built across river estuaries with turbines in them
• As the tide comes in, it fills up the estuary - water is then let out through turbines to generate electricity
• There’s no pollution, but they limit boat access, can spoil views and alter habitats for wildlife
• Tides are reliable as they always happen twice a day - (Initial costs are high, but running costs are minimal)