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Types of clean energy - Unpacking the fundamentals

When discussing sustainable development and reducing carbon emissions, the term “clean energy” frequently arises.

Although it overlaps with the term “renewable energy”, these concepts are not identical. Let's start with some basic definitions before exploring the types of clean energy and their role in sustainable development.

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What is clean energy?

Clean energy includes any energy generation with ultra-low carbon and greenhouse gas emissions. It is a broader category than renewable energy, which specifies how power is generated.

Rather than focusing strictly on renewables, clean energy also includes efficient power generation like fusion and fission-based power sources. While not as popular as solar power, nuclear power provides a vital bridge between periodic energy generation and on-demand energy generation.

Clean energy emphasises the environmental impact of power generation rather than the source's “naturalness”. Natural does not always mean low greenhouse gas emissions, and the environment benefits from clean energy generation, whether or not it is renewable.

What types of clean energy are there?

Starting with renewable clean energy sources, these are some of the most accessible ways to generate electricity on various budgets. Then we'll discuss nuclear options that are becoming more feasible for large-scale sustainable developments:

Solar

Solar energy is one of the most affordable and universal clean energy options. Although manufacturing solar panels can generate greenhouse gases, they become virtually emissions-free once operational.

Solar panels capture the sun’s rays and convert them into usable electricity. This requires available roof space or vacant elevated land facing the sun (south-facing in the Northern Hemisphere, north-facing in the Southern Hemisphere, directly upward at the equator). Solar thermal technology can also be used to directly heat buildings or water tanks.

Solar panels are most effective in areas receiving at least three peak solar hours per day on average. The Global Solar Atlas helps determine if a site receives sufficient sunlight.

Geothermal

Geothermal power is another practically universal clean energy source, available from thermal springs to volcanic zones worldwide. These sources can boil water (or another medium) to turn power-generating turbines.

Many sustainable development projects use geothermal for renewable heating and cooling. The temperature difference between the surface and underground can lead to significant HVAC cost savings. By installing pipes a few meters underground, buildings can be warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

Regions with year-round temperate climates might not benefit as much from geothermal technology for heating and cooling.

Hydropower

Hydropower projects vary in scale, from tidal power to dam-based generation, but smaller hydro projects are viable for developments with access to flowing water sources. Hydropower scales depending on the water available on site.

Microhydro can be integrated into a green energy plan in two ways: setting up a power station with a Turgo or Pelton water wheel for more extensive power generation or using a simpler Jack Rabbit turbine in flowing water for smaller-scale energy production.

Hydropower is highly location-dependent and subject to local regulation, but it provides reliable power generation day and night.

Nuclear

Nuclear power produces substantial energy with relatively low carbon emissions during setup and operation. The environmental impact of waste produced over a century is minimal compared to the waste from solar panel production and disposal.

Nuclear power suits large-scale sustainable developments due to the high initial investment, maintenance requirements, planning permission, and regulation.

Small-scale nuclear power currently costs around $60 per megawatt hour, more expensive than solar at about $40 per megawatt hour. However, for developments needing off-grid capabilities and continuous power generation, nuclear power is a viable option.

How can clean energy generation be integrated into sustainable development?

Effective planning of green energy solutions is essential to maximising cost and environmental benefits. This is particularly relevant for Equans, which focuses on delivering integrated energy solutions for various sectors including industrial, commercial, and public infrastructure.

Equans provides expertise in analysing the economic and practical benefits of different types of clean energy to ensure they meet the specific needs of each project. By leveraging their extensive experience, Equans can help clients identify the most suitable clean energy solutions based on local energy production levels, regulatory requirements, upfront costs, break-even points, and power consumption profiles.

For industrial and commercial applications, such as those Equans typically manages, the focus is on scalability and efficiency. Solar installations, for example, are planned to maximise exposure and energy output, ensuring they provide significant long-term value. Geothermal solutions are integrated to offer substantial HVAC savings, while hydropower projects are customised to the specific water sources available on-site. Nuclear power is considered for its reliability and low emissions, particularly for large-scale developments that require constant power supply.

By incorporating these diverse clean energy sources, Equans supports its clients in achieving sustainable development goals, reducing their carbon footprint, and ensuring a resilient energy infrastructure. Through tailored solutions and strategic planning, Equans continues to drive forward the transition to a low-carbon future, demonstrating leadership in the energy and services sector.

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