Most industrial machines rely on fossil fuels for power. Steam turbines are no exception since they use coal and natural gas to generate energy. However, efforts to maximize steam turbine efficiency include opting for more sustainable sources of power.
Industrial equipment is necessary to advance society; however, it often comes at a cost. Burning fossil fuels uses up essential resources while contributing to environmental decline. The good news is that these renewable energy sources for steam turbines can help change the course of many industries.
Geothermal Power
All steam turbines need a heat source to convert water into vapor. Typically, power generators do this by burning coal. However, geothermal power harnesses the Earth’s natural heat to create steam and produce electricity.
Steam plants dig deep into the Earth’s crust to find hot, high-pressure water reservoirs. Once the steam runs its course, professionals put it back where they found it. Geothermal power isn’t perfect since it requires large industrial sites to disrupt the Earth’s surface; still, it’s a better option than depleting the world of its natural resources.
Biomass Power
Some power plants still choose incineration as their best heat source. However, more sustainable material options exist beyond coal and gas. Biomass power involves burning organic material to replace fossil fuels and generate electricity.
Wood and agricultural waste are the most common forms of biofuel. Any compostable material can produce steam through the incineration process. However, experts must be careful not to burn toxic substances that could release harmful fumes while turning steam turbine blades.
Solar Power
Of course, the best renewable energy sources for steam turbines are the ones that don’t have any adverse side effects. What’s more naturally occurring than the sun? Harnessing solar power to generate steam seems to be the most eco-friendly option the power industry has.
The key is concentrating enough sunlight to heat large vats of water. Most solar energy plants use mirrors and other reflective surfaces to gather enough heat. From there, thermal energy transforms into steam, where expanding vapor molecules set turbines in motion.
Moving to more sustainable energy options is good for the environment. While we still have a long way to go, these promising new steam turbine power sources provide a strong foundation. Soon, the power industry will have what it takes to reduce its carbon footprint dramatically.
