All methods of power generation have some negative environmental impact. This may include the distribution of pollutants or the diminution of scarce natural resources. However, through the careful design and engineering of utility production facilities, there are ways to reduce environmental harm. The information below provides an introduction.

How to Make Energy Production Greener

1. Geothermal

Geothermal systems come in two types: small-scale and large-scale production facilities. Small-scale geothermal systems use the consistent temperature below the earth's surface—approximately 55 degrees—to preheat and precool air before it enters a building's HVAC system.

Large-scale facilities tap into the volcanic heat a mile or more below the ground and pipe hot water or steam to the surface to power electricity-generating turbines. These systems have minimal pollution effects and use no nonrenewable resources.

2. Solar Power

Perhaps the most familiar green energy technology, solar power also comes in two principal types: passive and photovoltaic. The first uses building design and construction engineering to capture and store the sun's rays to heat water and warm building interiors. The second uses photovoltaic panels, which create an electrical current when exposed to sunlight. This current can be collected in DC batteries and used to power electrical appliances.

3. Wind Power

Wind power plants use large, fan-shaped turbines that rotate when the wind blows. The turbines turn a rotor that generates an electromagnetic field and creates an electrical current. It works just like a gas-powered generator or the alternator of a car, except on a larger scale, and the rotation is powered by the wind instead of a combustion engine.

 

If you operate a public utility company and seek to reduce the environmental impact of its power production process, contact CDA Engineering in Troy, MI. They serve Oakland County and the Detroit metropolitan area, specializing in fossil power plants, gas and electric utilities, and automotive manufacturing facilities. In addition to power and electrical engineers, their team includes experts in civil, structural, and mechanical engineering. Visit their website to learn more about the company, and call (248) 589-3300 to arrange a consultation.