Renewable energies

Renewable energies are energy sources that come from infinite resources, including wind, water and solar energy, bioenergy and geothermal energy. They differ from fossil energy sources as they cannot be regenerated in the short term and enable a sustainable energy supply.

Definition
Renewable energies include all energy sources that are not obtained from finite resources. These include wind energy, hydropower, solar energy (in the form of solar thermal energy and photovoltaics), bioenergy (biomass and biogas) and geothermal energy. These energy sources are potentially inexhaustible and contribute to reducing CO₂ emissions.

Background / origin
The basis of all renewable energies is nuclear fusion from the sun, tidal power due to planetary motion and geothermal energy from the earth's core, with solar energy being the most productive source. It supplies an annual amount of energy equivalent to 10,000 times the world's current energy requirements.

In contrast to fossil fuels, which have formed over millions of years and cannot be regenerated in the short term, the use of renewable energies is based on the principles of sustainability. Their use is seen as a central component of a sustainable energy supply and is important for reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

The relevance of renewable energies is growing continuously. Studies and forecasts, such as those of the International Energy Agency (IEA), show an increase in use, with predictions that by 2030 over a quarter of global energy consumption could be covered by renewable energy.

Characteristics
Renewable energies are characterized by the following features:

- Composition: they are made up of various sources, including wind, water, solar, biomass and geothermal.
- Physical characteristics: These forms of energy, unlike fossil fuels, are potentially inexhaustible and do not fall under the same physical and chemical limitations of finite resources.
- Differences in quality: Secondary forms of energy, such as electricity and heat, derived from these resources can vary in quality and are often referred to imprecisely as renewable energy in common parlance.
- Chemical characteristics: These energy stores and carriers have special chemical properties that affect their use and efficiency.

Application and importance in the market
The use of renewable energies covers numerous areas, including electricity generation, heat generation and various industrial applications. These energy sources are crucial for the production of environmentally friendly fuels and help to minimize CO₂ emissions.

International differences in the availability and use of these resources are shaping global energy strategy. The increased use of renewable energies is necessary to ensure a sustainable future and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Differentiation from similar terms
In contrast to fossil energy sources, which are not renewable, renewable energies offer a sustainable and long-term solution to energy needs. While fossil fuels were formed over millions of years, renewable energy resources are continuously available and can be used in a variety of ways.

Summary
Renewable energies are a central component of a sustainable energy supply. They come from infinite resources and are crucial for reducing CO₂ emissions and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The various forms of renewable energy such as wind, water, sun and biomass are becoming increasingly important and will make a significant contribution to the future energy supply. Forecasts show that their use will increase significantly by 2030.