Question

Distinguish between conventional and non-conventional sources of energy

Answer 1

Conventional Sources

• Conventional sources of energy (e.g. coal, petroleum and natural gas) are non-renewable sources of energy.

• They have been in use since a long time. For example, firewood and coal have been in use since a long time.

• Most of these energy sources (e.g. coal and firewood) cause pollution when used.

• They are common and widely used sources (e.g. thermal power).

Non-conventional Sources

• Non-conventional sources of energy (e.g. solar and wind energy) are renewable sources of energy.

• These sources have recently developed and are still developing. For example, the technology of producing electricity from solar panels has recently developed.

• They do not cause any pollution (e.g. solar energy, geothermal energy etc.)

• They are comparatively new sources of energy and hence are not widely used. For example, solar panels and wind mills are not widely used.