With climate change on the rise, clean energies are gaining prominence as efficient alternatives to traditional sources. In this article, you'll understand what clean energy is. renewable energieshow they work and why they are essential for a more sustainable future.
What are renewable energies?
The renewable energies are those obtained from natural sources capable of continuous regeneration, such as the sun, wind and water. Unlike non-renewable energiesRenewable energy sources such as oil and coal, which run out over time and cause severe environmental impacts, are emerging as a viable and sustainable solution for the future.
In everyday life, the use of renewable energies is increasingly present. Whether through solar panels installed in homes and businesses, wind turbines in coastal regions or hydroelectric plants harnessing the potential of rivers, these sources play an essential role in the energy transition and in preserving the environment.
Where does the energy come from?
Around 95% of the energy consumed in the world comes from nature. The sources of renewable energies (which account for around 15% of this energy) take advantage of natural resources in constant movement, such as solar radiation, wind power and the flow of water. For example, solar energy transforms sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic panels, while wind energy uses turbines to capture air movement and generate electricity.
For a long time, the global energy matrix was (and still is) dominated by non-renewable sources such as oil and coal, resources that take thousands of years to form and generate high levels of pollution. In this scenario, renewable energy options make it possible to produce electricity in a clean, diversified way and with less environmental impact.
Most widely used types of renewable energy
Some of the main renewable energies are:
- Solar energyThis is one of the most promising sources of electricity, especially in tropical countries. In Brazil, it currently accounts for approximately 21.9% of the country's electricity matrix;
- Wind energyIt uses wind power to move turbines and generate electricity, and is very effective in open and coastal areas;
- HydropowerThe main source of electrical energy in Brazil is the hydroelectric power plant, which harnesses the power of moving water;
- BiomassThe new plant: transforms agricultural, forestry or urban waste into electricity or heat;
- Geothermal energyThe "volcano": generates energy from the heat of the earth's crust, which is quite common in volcanic regions.
- Tidal and wave energyIt uses the movement of seawater as a clean and constant source of energy.
Advantages and disadvantages of renewable energies
Among the advantages of renewable energiesThe main advantages of these sources are the reduction in the emission of polluting gases, the diversification of the energy matrix, the generation of green jobs and the encouragement of technological development. In addition, they are practically inexhaustible sources, which increases a country's energy security.
On the other hand, there are still disadvantages, such as the high initial cost, the dependence on climatic conditions and the need for large areas to install equipment, especially in the case of solar and wind energy.
Brazil and its leadership in renewable energies
Brazil is a global benchmark when it comes to renewable energies. More than 80% of the country's electricity matrix comes from renewable sources, well above the world average. This position is the result of intelligent use of natural resources, such as ample water availability, high solar radiation and favorable winds in various regions. As well as reducing environmental impacts, this choice strengthens energy independence and boosts the green economy.
How Simpar promotes the use of renewable energies
Simpar has stood out for its commitment to sustainability and encouraging the use of renewable energies in its subsidiaries. Through the installation of solar energy systems and the monitoring of energy consumption by the Sustainability Committee, the group seeks to reduce its environmental impact and optimize the use of natural resources.
Group companies such as Movida prioritize the use of ethanol in their fleet and already fuel several units with solar energy. VAMOS offers electric forklifts and Ciclus Ambiental uses the biogas generated in waste treatment as fuel, ensuring energy self-sufficiency and being responsible for 10% of biomethane in Brazil. In this way, our holding strengthens its role in a low-carbon economy and reaffirms its role in building a more sustainable future.
Conclusion
The renewable energies are key to promoting a cleaner, more efficient and safer future. With abundant natural resources and constantly evolving technology, these sources offer real alternatives to traditional energies, enabling economic growth with environmental responsibility. On the corporate scene, examples such as Simpar's show that it is possible to combine strategy, innovation and commitment to the planet. Investing in renewable energies today is to guarantee a more sustainable tomorrow for everyone.