More energy resources (Edexcel GCSE Physics Combined Science): Revision Notes

More energy resources

Wind Power

Advantages	Disadvantages
No pollution	High initial costs, but low running costs
Wind rotates turbines, which turn generators to produce electricity	Spoils the view and can be noisy
Each turbine has its own generator	Many turbines are needed to generate sufficient electricity
	Cannot always supply energy – only work when it's windy
	Unreliable during periods of high demand

Solar Cells

Advantages	Disadvantages
No pollution	High initial costs
Can be used in sunny and cloudy countries	Manufacturing requires lots of energy
Effective for generating electricity in homes	Only generate small amounts of electricity
No running costs once installed	Cannot produce energy at night when demand may be higher

Hydroelectricity

Advantages	Disadvantages
No pollution	Large environmental impact due to valley flooding, destroying habitats
Reliable and can immediately respond to energy demands	High initial costs, but low running costs
Can generate more electricity as more water is released

Tidal Barrages

Advantages	Disadvantages
No pollution	Affects boat access
Fairly reliable source of energy	Spoils the view
No fuel costs	Alters habitats for wildlife
No running costs	Doesn't work when water levels are equal on both sides of the barrage
	High initial costs