Non-Fossil Fuels
Geography: Edexcel A Level, topic 8.3.2
Renewable vs Recyclable Energy
Instead of fossil fuels, renewable or recyclable energy can be used as a more sustainable fuel option. For all forms of energy, the strike price refers to the minimum price per megawatt hour (MWh).
Renewable energy
- Biomass - heat energy from biological and man-made waste (£80/MWh).
- Solar power - electrical energy is generated using photovoltaic cells in sunlight (£50-80/MWh).
- Wind energy - a wind turbine is turned by wind driving a generator (onshore: £80/MWh Offshore: £115-120/MWh).
- Hydroelectric Power - water held behind at a dam turns a turbine to drive a generator (£100/MWh).
Recyclable energy
- Nuclear power - uses the heat from atomic reaction to heat water, the steam produced turns turbines to generate electricity (£92.50/MWh).
- Heat and power systems - heat inside the building is used to draw warm air in from outside (costs between £1,200-3,000 per house).
Nuclear, Wind and Solar
Instead of fossil fuels, other sources of energy can be used as a more sustainable fuel option.
Nuclear power
- Before the 2011 Tsunami, 27% of Japan’s electricity came from nuclear power. But the Fukushima nuclear plant was damaged and released dangerous levels of radiation.
- This has resulted in Japan closing all its nuclear reactors temporarily.
Wind power
- A wind turbine 25m taller than other onshore turbines in Aylesbury provides energy for 2,000 homes.
- But residents are concerned about it being visually displeasing.
- Environmentalists are concerned about the potential harm to birds.
- There are concerns that the supply may be intermittent depending on the frequency and intensity of the wind.
Solar power
- Solar panels covering an area equal to 175 football pitches and costing £50 million have been set up in Christchurch. They will provide energy for 75% of Bournemouth’s homes.
- There are arguments against the solar farm because of the vast area of productive farmland being used.
- Solar electricity still requires a high strike price, meaning that it is a relatively expensive form of electricity for its consumers.
Test yourself on Non-Fossil Fuels
What is the most expensive renewable energy?
How big is the area of solar panels in Christchurch, England?