The question of how to use energy for the constructive use of mankind with the least cost, economically and environmentally, is the greatest conundrum faced by the world at large. The pollution from using fossil fuels and nuclear waste have detrimental effects on all living species on the planet as well as the planet itself , from natural disasters , ozone depletion and diseases to smog and wildlife extinction. This has led scientists to come up with alternative methods of harnessing energy to minimize the debilitating effects of traditional energy sources on the environment.

Solar power

Solar energy is the use of energy from the Sun - it is the conversion of sunlight into electricity. This can be done by a variety of methods such as photovoltaic. Solar heaters can heat water tanks, swimming pools and water pumps for agricultural purposes. Technology has harnessed solar power for a variety of other uses as well, from metal smelting and solar cookers, to industrial chemical production, domestic electricity generation and vehicle fueling.

Hydroelectricity

This is a well-known source of energy especially in tropical countries. Utilizing the gravitational force of falling water from a high place creates energy. It is a sustainable source of power and is the most commonly used alternative form of energy. Furthermore, a hydroelectric plant does not generate toxic byproducts. Fossil fuel-powered energy plants produce a high level of greenhouse gases whereas those that are powered by hydroelectricity emit lesser gases. Even though building and maintenance of dams are not environment-friendly as well as economy-wise to be employed largely, hydroelectric plants have more benefits than drawbacks.

Wind power

One type of hydropower involves the use of the energy produced by the tides. The energy from the tides is transformed into electricity and other kind of power. Since the tides are generated by the gravitational forces and the rotation of the earth, tidal power has an astounding potential although it is not yet widely utilized. Moreover, it can't get exhausted.

Hydroelectricity

This is a type of hydropower wherein the energy created by tides is transformed into electricity and various kinds of power. Tides are a result of the gravitational forces and rotation of the earth. Therefore, it cannot be depleted unless the earth completely stopped. Although it is not yet extensively employed, tidal power is very promising.

Nuclear Energy

Nuclear power is harnessed by nuclear technologies that generate energy through nuclear reactions such as nuclear fission. Nuclear reactors produce steam energy through the heating up of water and then converted into electricity or the power of thrust. Among the many uses of nuclear power is powering ships and other naval vessels.

Geothermal power

Heat that comes from underneath the surface of earth creates geothermal power. Power plants that make use of geothermal energy are in operation 24 hours per day. This makes it a very economical way to harness energy rather than utilizing fossil fuels which have varying costs. An entire city can be supplied by a huge geothermal plant. For buildings and villages, a small one is enough as well. Geothermal plants are viable sources of energy. These plants do not rely on the weather and they do not give off toxic substances to the air.