Comparing Energy Sources: Natural Gas, Nuclear, and Hydropower

Natural Gas (Non-Renewable)

The extraction of natural gas is straightforward and economical due to the natural pressure from overlying sediments, which causes the gas to flow on its own. It is transported through pipelines or on ships similar to oil tankers, though these methods carry inherent risks. Natural gas is commonly used for heating and cooking.

Advantages of Natural Gas

• Produces less CO₂ than other fossil fuels.
• Does not produce SO₂ or NO₂, resulting in a lower impact on the greenhouse effect and acid rain.
• Relatively easy to extract and transport.

Disadvantages of Natural Gas

• Risk of explosion during transportation.
• Negative impact on the landscape from extraction and infrastructure.
• It is a non-renewable resource.

Nuclear Fission (Non-Renewable)

Source: Energy is obtained by splitting uranium nuclei with neutrons in a process called nuclear fission. Plutonium is sometimes used to enhance the reaction.

Advantages of Nuclear Fission

• A small amount of uranium produces a large amount of energy.
• Does not emit polluting gases during operation.

Disadvantages of Nuclear Fission

• High construction and maintenance costs for power plants.
• Risk of frequent reactor failures and shutdowns.
• Challenges related to poor management and overestimation of electricity demand.
• The disposal of radioactive waste remains a significant, unresolved issue.
• Can impact the local microclimate, making it warmer and more humid.
• The discharge of cooling water raises river temperatures, which can alter the surrounding ecosystem by reducing the water's oxygen levels.

Hydropower (Renewable)

Source: When the floodgates of a dam are opened, the force of the released water drives a turbine. This turbine is connected to a generator, which transforms the mechanical energy into electricity.

Advantages of Hydropower

• Low operating costs and minimal maintenance requirements.
• Emits no pollutants during operation.
• Helps regulate river flows, enabling water to be used for other purposes such as irrigation.

Disadvantages of Hydropower

• Reduces biodiversity and can impede the migration of fish.
• Alters river flows and groundwater levels.
• Changes the chemical composition of reservoir water, potentially leading to eutrophication.
• Can cause variations in the local microclimate.
• Poses geological risks, including accelerated erosion and reservoir sedimentation.
• Risk of catastrophic failure of the dam.
• Involves high initial construction costs.
• Leads to the destruction of arable land and the displacement of local populations.