Electrical energy

Sources of Electricity

Electricity is generated from various natural sources, each with its unique method of energy conversion. The four major sources include:

1. Waterfalls
2. Sunlight
3. Wind
4. Fossil fuels

Waterfalls (Hydropower)

• Energy from falling or flowing water is harnessed to generate electricity.
• Energy Conversion System: Water turbines connected to electric generators.

Sunlight (Solar Energy)

1. Energy from the sun is directly converted into electricity.
2. Energy Conversion System: Solar panels (photovoltaic cells).

Wind (Wind Power)

1. Energy from moving air (wind) is used to rotate blades of turbines.
2. Energy Conversion System: Wind turbines connected to electric generators.

Fossil Fuels (Thermal Power)

Small scale fuel electric generator

• Energy stored in fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) is released by burning them. The heat energy is used to generate electricity.
• Energy Conversion System: Fueled generators and steam turbines.