Sustainable forms of energy can meet the growing demand for energy while preserving the environment in all its glory. Eight forms of energy are essential for this in order to tackle the energy transition:

1.Hydropower

Water is not only the elixir of life, but also an energy miracle. In hydroelectric power plants, it flows through turbines that drive a generator. This is how electricity is generated, without any CO2 emissions. It is the most efficient form of energy generation, and the energy can also be stored, allowing for flexible supply. The water is not affected during its use, it retains its quality and does not diminish. Hydroelectric power plants even contribute to the purification of rivers and serve as flood protection.

2. Solar energy

The ball of fire in the sky has been providing mankind with heat and light since its existence. Despite its great distance from the earth, the sun is an infinitely effective energy supplier. Theoretically, it generates almost 3000 times as much energy as the world needs. Solar thermal systems harness the power of the sun’s rays to power heating systems or heat water. Photovoltaic systems convert solar energy directly into electrical energy for a wide variety of appliances. The sun is also the basis for other renewable energies. Without it, there would be no wind, for example, and plants could not grow.

Wind power can still be used directly as mechanical energy, for example for water pumps or rotating machine parts. © Unsplash

3. Wind energy

Early in human history, windmills were used to grind grain, for example. Today, air currents set windmills in motion, driving rotors that in turn power generators. However, wind power can still be used directly as mechanical energy, for example for water pumps or rotating machine parts. In addition, wind turbines can be used to supply local power to remote homes, farms or small villages.

4. Biomass

The principle of biomass: to generate energy by burning renewable raw materials. The required materials can be grown specifically for this purpose, but they can also be waste products generated by plants, animals and humans. Solid biomass, such as firewood, wood pellets or cereal straw, is mainly used to generate heat. Liquid biomass, such as vegetable oils, can also become fuels, keyword biodiesel. Energy can also be generated with gases that are produced, for example, during the fermentation of biological waste.

5. Geothermal energy

Just like the sun above the earth, there is an unimaginable energy potential inside the earth itself. Starting from the hot core, heat is stored throughout the earth’s crust. In the first three kilometers below the earth’s surface alone, there would be enough energy to supply mankind for 100,000 years. With heat pumps, the heat can be used directly to heat houses or water. In power plants, geothermal energy is also converted into electricity.

The function of the manufacturing method of geothermal energy. © British Geological Survey

6. Atomic nuclear fission

For a long time a controversial topic, in the wake of the climate and energy crisis the issue of nuclear fission is once again coming to the fore. It is the technology for the large-scale generation of secondary energy by means of nuclear fission. Although its production is fundamentally more climate-friendly than fossil fuels, there are many different views of the advantages and disadvantages of nuclear power. Above all, there is controversy over safety and the handling of radioactive waste.

7. Atomic nuclear fusion

Nuclear fusion, on the other hand, represents a scientific ray of hope. This refers to nuclear reactions in which two atomic nuclei each fuse to form a new nucleus, releasing large amounts of energy in the process. Nuclear fusion reactions are the reason why the sun and all shining stars radiate energy. The advantage is that it is nearly CO2 free, but production is a major scientific challenge.

8. Hydrogen 

Hydrogen can power electric motors, store energy and heat homes with the help of fuel cells. According to experts, this multi-talent even has the potential to make a decisive contribution to the energy transition. The most widespread chemical element could be the decisive piece in the puzzle for the complete abandonment of fossil energies. However, hydrogen must first be produced, which is why its manufacture is very costly and time-consuming. Production by electrolysis using surplus green electricity is particularly sustainable. Other production processes are at the research and development stage.

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