Electric energy, which was actively used, by historical standards, not so long ago, significantly changed the life of all mankind. Currently, different types of power plants produce a huge amount of energy. Of course, for a more accurate representation it was possible to find specific numerical values. But for qualitative analysis this is not so important. It is important to note the fact that electrical energy is used in all spheres of human life and activity. It is even difficult for a modern man to imagine how it was possible to manage without electricity some hundred years ago.
A high demand for electrical energy also requires corresponding generating capacities. To generate electricity, as people sometimes say in everyday life, thermal, hydraulic, nuclear and other types of power plants are used. As it is not difficult to see, the specific type of generation is determined by the type of energy that is required to generate an electric current. In hydropower plants, the energy of the water flow falling from the height is converted into an electric current. Similarly, gas-fired power plants convert the heat energy of the combustion gas into electricity.
Everyone knows that in nature the law of conservation of energy operates. All these types of power plants essentially transform one type of energy into another. In nuclear reactors , a chain reaction of the decomposition of certain elements takes place with the release of heat. This heat is converted into electricity by certain mechanisms. Exactly the same principle applies to thermal power plants. Only in this case, the source of heat is organic fuel - coal, fuel oil, gas, peat and other substances. The practice of recent decades has shown that such a method of generating electricity is very costly, causing significant damage to the environment.
The problem is that the reserves of organic fuel on the planet are limited. Spend them should be sparingly. The progressive minds of mankind have long understood this and are actively seeking a way out of this situation. Alternative power stations that operate on other principles are considered to be one of the possible options. In particular, solar energy and wind are used to generate energy. The sun will always shine and the wind will never get tired. As experts say, these are inexhaustible or renewable sources of energy that need to be used rationally.
Most recently, the list, which includes types of power plants, was short. Only three positions - thermal, hydraulic and nuclear. At present, several well-known companies in the world are conducting serious research and development projects in the field of solar energy. As a result of their activity on the market, converters of sunlight to electricity appeared. It should be noted that their efficiency still leaves much to be desired, but this problem will be solved sooner or later. Similarly, the situation with the utilization of wind energy. Wind generators are becoming more common.