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From Spira
Commercial Self-Paced Convenient Training Courses In Green Energy - An Analysis
It is by using natural resources such as tidal or wind energy - collectively known as 'Green Energy' - that we could meet our daily energy needs. Collectively they are thought to be 'Green' because they are ecologically sound and easy to replace. It is easy to think that we may be travelling back in time when we think of items such as wind power and windmills. However, it is the result of eco-efficient and planet friendly options that this process is maintained.
In the home environment, one can see examples such as Solar Thermal and Solar Water Heating Collectors. Equally there is electricity that is generated through roof-installed panels. Following on from this is a process known as Biomass Energy - which includes Boilers burning wood and other fuels. Then we have the ancient energy of the Sun and the heat that comes from it - now called Ground Source Heat Pumps. At the end there are two of the most mature forms of energy production in the UK - albeit renamed now to Wind Turbines and Hydropower.
Solar Thermal Energy Systems - Also known as Solar Energy, this mainly uses two, albeit different types of solar panels to get the desired results. To begin with, we have the concept of drawing energy from the Sun to heat water - known as Solar Water Heating Collectors. Added to this is the generation of electricity from solar radiation - known as Photovoltaism, or more commonly Solar Electrical panels. Typically, these panels are found on roofs - and need to be away from any light blocks such as trees, chimneys and other buildings.
As a result, Solar Water Power is often considered the most common form of Solar Energy in the UK. With the ability to provide almost half the annual need for hot water in the house, Solar Water heating systems are very important. Typically, to fit this type of equipment will cost between 500 and 1500 pounds for a DIY kit - all the way up to 2-5k for a full professional fitting.
Biomass Energy Systems - Including all natural energy forms derived from plant and animal products - such as wood, straw, poultry litter and 'energy crops'. Due to its adaptability, it can produce a range of energy forms - from heat and electricity through to combinations of both. It is a useful point to make that the UK is one of the major producers of Biomass fuels within Europe. The lack of C02 given out by this form of energy is another positive element in the whole process. Because the system often involves one tree being planted as another is felled, many wood crops are deemed to be sustainable sources.
'Energy Crops' trees such as Willow and Poplar play a major part in the process - under the banner of Short Rotation Coppice (SRC). Perennial grasses are also responsible for large quantities of dry matter. Equally significant within this practice sit Municipal and Agricultural waste products. Agricultural Waste is commonly formed as a by-product of traditional agricultural work. However, waste derived from food or wood is another biomass entity - called Municipal Waste.
Geo-Thermal Energy Based Systems - The constant energy of the Sun heating the Earth results in both warm water and electricity being produced. Using the ground temperature of around 12 degrees in the UK - we can both heat and cool buildings. Heat pumps are recognised as a very good form of power generation, generally giving back four units of energy for every one used. Heat source pump energy can go one step further (by gaining a 100 percent return) if the energy to power them comes from items such as wind turbines or solar electrical panels.
Wind Energy Systems: Without a doubt, wind energy has to be one of the oldest forms of energy production known to man. That aside, the ability to generate energy and both transfer this into the home or the local grid has been a relatively new option. With regard to wind generation, it is the UK that has the highest production within Europe. It is interesting to note that whilst we can produce 10 percent of our entire power requirement from wind power, at present we only produce 1 percent. Frankly, electricity can be realised from as little as 2p per kWh - as opposed to the current level of 2-10 p per kWh. The financial recovery process takes around 6-9 months.
Hydropower is a method that suits the UK energy production system. The ability to utilise energy from moving water, much like wind power, has been going on for thousands of years. In total, this could produce something like 2 percent of all electricity required in the UK.
A hydropower system transforms the kinetic energy of the moving water into another type of energy by means of a turbine. By using a dam or a natural river drop, these turbines do not require water storage. 'Micro-Hydro' however utilises old outdated sluices and dams. Having said that, this process could still generate 200mW of the National Capacity. Installing systems like this could cost between 200 pounds and 3k per kW of energy created.
The demand on 'Green Energy' continues to develop - in light of the energy demands worldwide. Within the UK and mainly the domestic sector, we are well placed to take advantage of the schemes above.
Electricians and Plumbers in particular are expected to provide the main thrust of domestic installation expertise. Grants and financial aid is also set to increase within the EEC and the UK - as 'Green Energy' gets ever higher status. As a new industry, there are a range of new certificates to gain. Electrical or plumbing training that incorporates green technology could be very useful for the future.
