Electrical energy is generated from various sources, which are broadly classified into conventional (non-renewable) and non-conventional (renewable) sources.
- Conventional sources (Non-renewable):
These sources are limited and may get exhausted over time.
- Thermal power: Generated by burning fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas
- Hydroelectric power: Produced using flowing or falling water in dams
- Nuclear power: Generated through nuclear reactions (fission of uranium)
- Non-conventional sources (Renewable):
These sources are naturally replenished and environmentally friendly.
- Solar energy: Generated using sunlight through solar panels
- Wind energy: Produced using wind turbines
- Biomass energy: Derived from organic materials like plant and animal waste
- Geothermal energy: Generated from heat within the Earth
- Tidal energy: Produced from ocean tides
Key difference:
- Conventional → Limited and may cause pollution
- Renewable → Sustainable and eco-friendly
In simple terms:
Electricity is produced from both traditional sources like coal and modern renewable sources like solar and wind.