Renewable Energy

"Renewable energy" is energy generated from renewable resources and allows future generations to have reliable, efficient and affordable energy supplies. Renewable energy promotes and protects our health and the environment.

Wind

The  word  "windmill"  refers  to  a  wind  powered  machine  that  grinds  grain. "Wind turbine" is a more accurate name for wind farm technology, as wind turbines can be used for a variety of purposes such as generating electricity or pumping water.

Before electrical lines extended into rural areas, small wind turbines were used on farms  to   pump  water  for  irrigation  and  cattle  and  to  power  a  few appliances in the house.

The components of wind turbines include: a rotor that converts wind power into mechanical power; a tall tower to support the rotors at higher windspeeds; a gearbox to connect the rotor shaft to the electrical generator or pump; a control system to monitor operation; and, a solid foundation to prevent tipping.

For additional stats on wind power, please visit:

www.canwea.ca/QuickFacts.html

Run-of-river hydro is a renewable energy source that comes from the gravitational flow or movement of water. At a hydroelectric plant, turbines and generators convert the energy in falling water into electricity.

According to "Renewable Energy Technologies, Natural Resources Canada", a recent trend is small scale projects less than 50 megawatts. Projects of this scale help local utilities to meet demand with growth in small increments.

Small hydroelectric plants can be developed at existing dams throughout Canada. The country has abundant water resources, and there are more than 500 small hydropower stations in Canada.

For additional information on run-of-river hydro, please visit:

www.canren.gc.ca

Biomass

Biomass energy is renewable energy that comes from plant materials produced by photosynthesis. These plant materials include wood, agricultural crops and other organic residues, and these fuels come from sources such as sawmills, woodworking shops, forest operations and farms. "Biomass power is neutral in terms of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. The burning of biomass fuels releases the CO2 that plants have already absorbed.

For more information on biomass, please visit:

www.canren.gc.ca