Renewable Energy Pros and Cons List

Energy, specifically renewable energy, has become a hot topic of discussion in recent years. As we seek to decrease our reliance on fossil fuels, it is increasingly important for us to find renewable energy sources. The population is rising each day and the time is now or never. With strong opinions on each side of the debate, the time has come to take a closer look.

List of Pros of Renewable Energy

1. Continuous Source Of Energy
The problem with many other forms of energy is that they can be depleted eventually. With renewable energy, the consumer has no such concerns. Once an area has located a viable renewable energy source, they are able to use it without a lengthy conversion process. Whether an area is using sun or wind, they will never have to worry about either of these entities running out.

2. Energy Prices Remain Constant
One of the biggest problems consumers experience with more conventional forms of energy is the up and down nature of pricing. Electric bills tend to vary drastically from month to month, but with renewable energy, the costs are related to the infrastructure, not the whims of the energy provider.

3. Decrease In Emissions of Greenhouse Gases
Renewable energy is much better for the health of the environment, as it decreases the carbon footprint by cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions. Traditional forms of energy pollute the environment with Co2 and other toxic gases, while renewable energy also reduces the amount of natural resources that are used. This ensures that greenhouse gas production is reduced for years to come.

List of Cons of Renewable Energy

1. Cost Of Development Is High
While businesses and home owners can rely on reduced energy rates once they have made the switch to renewable energy, the process is quite expensive. In order to create the infrastructure needed to harness renewable forms of energy, construction and manufacturing must take place, neither of which comes cheaply.

2. Increased Vulnerability To Weather Conditions
Even though renewable energy is reliable, those who rely upon it increase their susceptibility to sudden changes in weather conditions. When rain and wind are not abundant, it decreases the ability to harness renewable energy. If a homeowner or business owner lives in an area that experiences drastic swings in weather conditions, it makes it much more difficult for them to enjoy the benefits of renewable energy.

3. Large Amounts of Land Required
At the moment, renewable energy is not available to all, because of the large land requirements. Setting up solar panels or wind farms takes up a great deal of space, space that not everyone has at their disposal. Producing energy on a large scale is not within everyone’s capability.