Energy

What is energy?

Energy is used to power things like electrical items, lights, heating, some cars and machinery.

There are two types:

• Non-renewable energy comes from resources that will eventually run out such as coal, oil and natural gas. Using these sources of energy release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere which contributes to climate change.
• Renewable energy comes from natural sources and processes that are constantly replenished like the sun (solar power), wind, the tides, and geothermal heat (from under the ground).

Switching to renewable sources of clean or green energy helps tackle climate change. You may have seen some examples of collecting renewable energy like solar panels and wind turbines when you're out and about.

How you can help

• Ask your grown-ups if they use a green energy supplier for your home - and if they don't, see if they might consider it.
• Consider getting a hybrid or electric car in your family, rather than one that uses petrol or diesel. While electric cars can cost more to buy, electricity is cheaper than petrol or diesel and so you can save money over time!
• Install solar panels on your home to help produce energy - over the long time it will make your bills cheaper and be good for the environment!

Activity: Make a pinwheel!

See wind energy in action by making your very own pinwheel and enjoy watching the power of wind! Have you ever seen a wind turbine? With your grown up research how your pin wheel is similar to a wind-turbine. How are they different?