Energy Sources: Limited (Conventional/Traditional) and Renewable/Alternative
Energy Sources
1. Limited (Conventional/Traditional) Energy Sources
These are
energy sources that are finite/limited and will eventually run out/finish. Let’s explore them:
A. Fossil
Fuels:
- Fossil fuels (like coal, oil,
and natural gas) contain chemical potential energy.
- When we burn them, this energy
is converted into heat energy that we use for various purposes.
B. Atoms
(Nuclear Energy):
- Atoms have a special source of
energy called nuclear energy.
- 'Nuclear power plants' (pembangkit listrik tenaga nuklir/PLTN) use this
energy to generate electricity.
2. Renewable/Alternative Energy Sources
These are
energy sources that are continuously replenished/refilled by nature. Here are some
examples:
A. The Sun
(Solar Energy):
- The sun provides us with solar
energy, which includes both light energy and heat energy.
- Solar panels capture/catch sunlight
and convert/change it into electricity.
B. Wind:
- Wind has kinetic energy
(energy of motion).
- Wind turbines harness/use this
energy to generate electricity.
C. Running
Water (Hydropower):
- Moving water (such as rivers or
waterfalls) has kinetic energy.
- 'Hydropower plants' (pembangkit listrik tenaga air/PLTA) use this
energy to produce electricity.
D. The Earth
(Geothermal Energy):
- Beneath the Earth’s surface,
there is heat stored in rocks and magma.
- 'Geothermal power plants' (pembangkit listrik tenaga panas bumi/PLTP) tap into/use this geothermal energy to generate electricity.
E. Biofuels:
- Biofuels (like ethanol from
corn or biodiesel from vegetable oils) contain chemical potential
energy.
- We can convert this energy into
heat energy for cooking or heating.
3. Why Should We Conserve Energy?
A. Limited (Conventional/Traditional) and Renewable/Alternative Sources:
- As we’ve seen, some energy
sources are limited (like fossil fuels), while others are renewable (like
solar and wind energy).
- By conserving energy, we ensure
that we use these resources wisely and sustainably/continuously.
B. Conserving
Energy:
- When we conserve energy, we
reduce our overall consumption.
- This helps protect the
environment, reduces pollution, and ensures a better future for our
planet.
C. Some Ways of Conserving
Energy:
·
Turn off Lights and
Appliances/Equipments/Tools: Remind everyone to turn off lights, fans, and electronic
devices when not in use. Unplugging chargers and devices that are not actively
charging also helps save energy.
·
Use Energy-Efficient
Bulbs: Replace traditional incandescent/glowing bulbs with energy-efficient
LED or CFL bulbs. They use less electricity and last longer.
·
Adjust Thermostats: Set thermostats to
an optimal temperature. Lower the thermostat during winter and raise it during
summer to reduce heating and cooling energy consumption.
·
Seal Leaks: Insulate doors and
windows to prevent drafts. Proper insulation keeps your home comfortable
without excessive heating or cooling.
· (Kebocoran Segel: Isolasi pintu dan jendela untuk mencegah angin kencang. Isolasi yang tepat membuat rumahmu nyaman tanpa pemanasan atau pendinginan yang berlebihan.)
·
Choose
Energy-Efficient Appliances/Equipments/Tools: When buying new appliances, look for the ENERGY STAR label.
These appliances are designed to use less energy.
·
Unplug Chargers and
Devices: Even when not in use, chargers and devices consume a small
amount of energy. Unplug them to save electricity.
·
Use Natural Light: Open curtains and
blinds during the day to let in natural sunlight. It reduces the need for
artificial lighting.
·
Limit Hot Water Usage: Use cold water for
washing clothes whenever possible. Fix any leaks/kebocoran-kebocoran in faucets/keran-keran or pipes promptly/productively.
·
Plant Trees and
Shrubs/Semak Belukar: Strategically planting trees and shrubs around your home
provides shade/naungan and helps regulate/set indoor temperatures.
·
Encourage Walking or
Biking: Instead of driving short distances, encourage walking, biking,
or using public transportation. It reduces fuel consumption.
This helps
protect the environment, reduces pollution, and ensures a better future for our
planet.
Remember, every small effort counts! Encourage yourselves to be energy-conscious and make a positive impact.
Every small action contributes to a more sustainable/continuous future!
Refreshing Practice: