renewable energy

/riˈnuəbəl ˈɛnərdʒi/

/rɪˈnuəbəl ˈɛnədʒi/

Other forms: renewable energies

Renewable energy is a natural source of power that won't run out. Someone who heats and cools their house with solar panels uses renewable energy.

Energy that comes from the sun, wind, ocean tides, and the heat inside the earth are all forms of renewable energy. When these sources are used to generate electricity, they replenish themselves. Other energy sources, like gas and oil, are finite, and they will eventually be depleted. This phrase renewable energy was coined in the 1970s; renewable comes from the verb renew, "replace with a fresh supply," and its roots, meaning "revive again."

Definitions of renewable energy

1. noun

   power produced by natural resources that cannot be used up, such as wind, water, or solar power