Advantages and disadvantages of renewable energy resources

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National 4

Generation of electricity

Electricity can be generated using a turbine to drive a generator before distribution. Renewable and non-renewable energy sources have pros and cons in terms of cost, reliability and pollution.

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Electricity

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Pros and cons of renewable energy resources

Advantages of non-renewable energy resources

Most renewable energy resources are clean, because they do not produce any pollution and cheap because their energy supplies do not have any cost.

Hydroelectric power stations, as well as tidal and wave generators, are very reliable, and both hydroelectric power stations and tidal generators produce large amounts of electricity.

Disadvantages of renewable energy resources

At the present time, most renewable energy generators are expensive to set up. Also, sources such as wind turbines and solar cells rely heavily on the weather. If it is not a windy day, wind turbines will not turn. And if it is not sunny, solar cells will not produce much electricity.

Energy ResourceAdvantagesDisadvantages
Fossil fuels Reliable Create pollution and will run out
Nuclear power Reliable Will run out and produce dangerous waste that is hard to dispose of
Wind turbines Clean and cheap to run Expensive to set up and wind does not always blow
Wave generators Clean and cheap to run and Scotland has a lot of coastline Expensive to set up
Tidal generators Clean and cheap to run and produce a lot of electricity once running Very expensive to set up and could be hazardous to local wildlife
Hydroelectric power stations Clean and cheap to run Expensive to set up and output could be affected by drought
Solar cells Clean and cheap to run Not always sunny and output does not always outweigh initial cost to set up

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What are the advantages and disadvantages of renewable resources?

The Advantages of Renewable Energy Resources.
1) A Fuel Supply That Never Runs Out. ... .
2) Zero Carbon Emissions. ... .
3) Cleaner Air and Water. ... .
4) A Cheaper Form of Electricity. ... .
5) Renewable Energy Creates New Jobs. ... .
1) Higher Capital Costs. ... .
2) Electricity Production Can Be Unreliable. ... .
3) Energy Storage Is a Challenge..

What are the disadvantages of renewable energy resources?

Disadvantages of Renewable Energy.
Renewable Energy Is Not Available Round the Clock. ... .
The Efficiency of Renewable Technologies Is Low. ... .
The Initial Cost of Renewable Energy Is High. ... .
Renewable Energy Sites Require A Lot of Space. ... .
Renewable Energy Devices Need Recycling..

What are 10 advantages of renewable energy?

The 10 Key Advantages of Renewable energy.
Clean, Safe & Efficient. ... .
Numerous methods for creating renewable power. ... .
Gives your country energy independence. ... .
Provides jobs for your local community. ... .
Doesn't rely on the main power grid. ... .
Stable costs. ... .
Can enjoy the summer and winter whilst indoors. ... .
Save & make money..

What are 2 advantages of renewable energy resources?

Benefits of Renewable Energy Generating energy that produces no greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels and reduces some types of air pollution. Diversifying energy supply and reducing dependence on imported fuels. Creating economic development and jobs in manufacturing, installation, and more.