Earth's physical resources: renewable energy - for iPad/Mac/PC: Recent Episodes
The Open University
As the world responds to climate change, we explore whether sustainable energy can satisfy our need for endless economic growth, without radical changes in the way we live. This album examines power sources which provide cleaner alternatives to fossil fuels, such as wind power, biomass, hydro power, wave and tidal power, solar and geothermal power. The nine video tracks introduce the different approaches adopted in Britain and across Europe, the challenges faced and the projects of the future. This material forms part of S278, Earth's physical resources: origin, use and environmental impact.
Transcript -- Which European country has the best wind resource, and which has the most turbines?
Transcript -- The story of Kirkheaton wind farm, run by Northern Electric and AMEC Border Wind.
The story behind some of the first wind farms developed in the UK. The concerns and obstacles these projects faced at the outset.
Transcript -- The story behind some of the first wind farms developed in the UK. The concerns and obstacles these projects faced at the outset.
Transcript -- How do we make biogas and what forms of biomass are we currently using in Europe?
How photovoltaic cells convert sunlight directly into electrical energy. A look at the government's incentives for household photovoltaic systems in Germany.
Transcript -- How photovoltaic cells convert sunlight directly into electrical energy. A look at the government's incentives for household photovoltaic systems in Germany.
Solar power stations in Holland generate energy, even on cloudy days. Examining the photovoltaic schemes in operation in the UK and the rest of Europe.
Transcript -- Solar power stations in Holland generate energy, even on cloudy days. Examining the photovoltaic schemes in operation in the UK and the rest of Europe.
Will wave energy eventually overtake wind power? A look at today's technology in operation and the offshore devices of the future.
Transcript -- Will wave energy eventually overtake wind power? A look at today's technology in operation and the offshore devices of the future.
How extreme heat occurs beneath the Earth's surface, and how aquifers and bore-holes can provide a valuable source of energy.
Transcript -- How extreme heat occurs beneath the Earth's surface, and how aquifers and bore-holes can provide a valuable source of energy.