Introduction
Introduction to Renewable Energy

This Introduction provides background information about the Earth’s atmosphere, greenhouse gases, and sources of greenhouse gases. It discusses Germany's present energy mix, as well as the Energiewende—Germany's strategy to move away from nonrenewable energy sources.

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Guiding Question

What is the energy mix of your community?

Globally, the burning of fossil fuels accounts for 87% of carbon dioxide emissions by human activity. Electricity generation and heating account for 27% of carbon dioxide emissions from burning of fossil fuels. The transition to renewable energy sources from nonrenewable energy sources is a vital factor in mitigating climate change and securing a sustainable future.

Students will read the Renewable Energy Introduction of the Companion Reader.

Students will gather information to answer the following discussion questions:

What is the difference between renewable and nonrenewable energy?
Why are renewable energy resources important to environmental policy?
Critics and proponents generally agree that full implementation of renewable energy resources will require:
- Government subsidies
- Decentralization of energy production

Renewable Energy Introduction(PDF, 116 KB)

Students will use the Introductory Activity instructions below for this activity.

In small groups, students will research the energy mix of their own community. The can use the Power Profiler on the EPA’s website.

Introductory Activity Worksheet(PDF, 43 KB)

Students will develop criteria and constraints using the following guiding questions.

How can scientific principles and technology be applied to renewable energy implementation?
What advances in renewable technologies might be needed to make renewable energy competitive with nonrenewable energy?
How energy self-sufficient is your community, and what factors may influence this?

They should compare their findings to Germany's energy mix. Give them instructions on how to share their findings on the digital platform of your choice (presentation, film, etc.).