Renewable and Nonrenewable Energy - Key Terms & Definitions

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Renewable Energy

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Energy that comes from natural sources that replenish over short timescales, such as the sun, wind, and water.

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Solar Power

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Energy harnessed from the sun’s radiation using solar panels or solar thermal systems.

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Wind Power

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Electricity generated using wind turbines that convert wind energy into mechanical power.

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Hydroelectric Power

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Energy produced by the movement of water, often using dams to generate electricity.

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Geothermal Energy

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Heat energy from the Earth's interior used for electricity generation or direct heating.

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Biomass Energy

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Energy derived from organic materials such as wood, agricultural waste, and biofuels.

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Tidal Energy

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Power generated from the rise and fall of ocean tides through underwater turbines.

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Wave Energy

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Energy extracted from the movement of ocean waves to generate electricity.

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Energy Storage

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Technologies like batteries and pumped hydro storage that store excess renewable energy for later use.

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Grid Integration

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The process of incorporating renewable energy sources into existing electricity grids efficiently.