Energy based on exploiting renewable energy sources has been known to humans since the dawn of history. Our ancient forefathers used solar radiation for warming and drying, whereas in the Middle Ages wind and water energy were commonly used to power contraptions. Another power source commonly used by our predecessors was biomass, usually in the form of burning wood for cooking and keeping bodies warm.

But since those early days of “baby steps” in the renewable energy field, humans have evolved tremendously and so has our demand for energy. Today we know of the dangers of greenhouse gases through fossil fuels, but despite this knowledge we are still drawing on limited energy sources which could and probably will eventually run out if we don't act now.

Environmental circumstances and demand are forcing us to seek better, greener solutions for the future. These days we are aware of the fact that renewable energy can always be replenished within a short time-frame, opposed to conventional energy. The most commonly used renewable energy sources are:

Solar – The sun is a vital form of energy. It gives “life” to all living creatures and plants and controls ocean currents, rivers and wind. Solar energy is harvested from the rays of the sun and captured by sun collectors and modules designed to convert solar energy into heat and electricity. Solar thermal technologies offer heating and cooling systems, and photovoltaic technologies convert light to electricity. Both are considered to be of high potential to the renewable energy industry. Worldwide photovoltaic installations increased 47% in 2008, compared to the previous year.

Wind – Wind is mainly used to generate electricity and blows as long as the sun shines. This is why wind is considered to be a renewable source of energy. Air that warms up and rises (as an effect of sunlight falling on oceans and continents) generates surface winds. A great interest in wind turbines has been recorded for the last ten years and seen growth at an average rate of over 30% per year. 2008 was another record year with more than 27 GW of new installations being installed worth about €36.5bn. Wind turbines are also considered to be very economical due to low fuel consumption. Right now, the United States are the number one market for the wind power industry.

Biomass – Biomass is organic material derived from plants and animals. When burned, biomass releases heat or electricity. Methane gas also known as “biogas”, ethanol and biodiesel are usable forms of energy converted from biomass. Fermented crops such as corn also produce ethanol and transportation fuel. Biogas is released from human and agricultural waste and biodiesel is made from vegetable oils and animal fats. It is believed that about 14% of the world's primary energy consumptions are supplied by biomass. Industry experts expect an increase of biomass in developing countries over the coming years due to the depletion of fossil fuels and an increase in demand.

Hydro - Hydro Power currently meets about 20% of the world’s electricity needs, even so, many other hydro power resources haven’t been developed yet. The force of moving water derives power which is used mainly to drive electrical generators at hydroelectric dams. Energy converted by turbines and generators is fed into the electrical grid to be used in homes, businesses, and for industrial purposes. The amount of energy produced by a hydropower installation depends on the flow of the water and on the amount of head (the height from which the water falls). Electric system output is a predictable, renewable energy electrical system, due to the stream’s flow being relatively consistent.

Geothermal – Originating from the Greek words of geo, meaning earth, and thermos, meaning heat, geothermal energy is derived from within our earth. We use geothermal energy to generate electricity and heat buildings.Heat from the earth is also used in geothermal heat pumps that behave like central heating or air conditioning systems. Hot water inside the earth is replaced by rain, and that’s why this source won’t run out like other mentioned renewable energy resources.

Renewable energy – is seen as the energy power house, and our goal in the 21st Century. It represents a realistic upcoming revolution. Renewable energy contributes to clean water and air, helps fight climate change, fosters energy independence and security.

Renewable energy helps to create jobs, new industries, builds access to community development in which 1energy actively participates, and is backed by the European Commission. The Commission’s proposal for The Directive on the promotion of the use of renewable energy, targets 20% of Europe's energy to be produced from renewable sources by 2020.

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