Renewable Energy in Urban Planning

The future of urban planning and development lies in the use of renewable energy sources. Renewable energy is the energy that comes from natural and inexhaustible sources. This energy is green, low-carbon and uses non-fossil fuels. Using this energy is a step towards promoting environmental sustainability around the world. A key consideration in urban planning is the development with sustainability measures of these energy sources for future generations. This is why implementations of the use of renewable energy sources is gaining popularity in urban areas.

Types of Renewable Energy

This energy exists in various forms and integrating the different types in urban planning depends on the available energy source.

Solar Energy

Solar energy is a common type of energy source obtained from the sun. Its use depends on the amount of sunlight available which varies based on the location, seasons and time of day. It is a preferred energy source in urban planning since it is reliable, efficient and freely available. In urban areas, solar panels are installed on rooftops tp trap sunlight, after which solar batteries convert the sunlight to electric power. Storing solar energy in high quantities solves issues of low electric production, especially during cold seasons. Regular maintenance of solar panels and storage batteries improves the sustainability of solar energy.

Hydropower Energy

Hydropower is a type of renewable energy generated from free-flowing or falling water in rivers and canals. Electric turbines are connected to the constructed dams where hydroelectric power plants generate electricity. When water rotates the turbines, the mechanical energy from the movement is converted to electric energy by the generators. Its use in urban areas depends on water available in rivers being tapped in the dams. Hydropower is a clean and safe energy, making it efficient for urban areas. However, the construction of dams can be expensive for commercial electricity generation. The integration in urban planning should consider the environmental impact and the availability of land for dam construction.

Wind Energy

Wind energy is a cost-effective energy source aimed towards sustainability in urban areas. The wind turbines directs energy obtained from the wind to a a generator, which spins to produce electricity. The amount of wind energy produced relies on the speed and intensity of wind in an area. It is crucial to check on adequate spaces for setting up wind power plants during urban planning. Windmills should be in an open space with free wind flow to enhance wind energy production. Wind turbines can be noisy and can alter urban areas visual aesthetics. It is essential to plan adequately for the location of the wind plant sites for wind energy production.

Geothermal Energy

Geothermal energy is a clean and inexhaustible heat energy from the earth’s crust, existing naturally in hot springs and volcanoes. A geothermal plant produces underground steam from reservoirs that rotate the turbines to transform mechanical energy into electric energy. The use of geothermal energy can be reliable in urban areas due to the sufficient supply for the population. However, the operation of geothermal plants is location-specific and can be hazardous due to the release of poisonous gas into the environment. This is why urban planners should take into consideration such factors when planning to use geothermal energy.

Application of Renewable Energy in Urban Planning

This energy can be incorporated in various ways to increase sustainability in urban areas.

Electricity Generation

These energy sources generate electricity used for various functions in residential and commercial spaces in urban areas. The electricity produced helps lighten, cook, power and run industrial machines which are essential uses in daily lives.

Heating and Cooling

Water heating and cooling uses energy generated from these sources. The steam from geothermal plants can be used in heating homes to improve indoor air quality.

Transportation

Using this energy is a step towards achieving sustainability in the transport sector. Switching from fossil fuels to zero-carbon E-fuels obtained from renewables sources protects the environment. The energy obtained from the sources can also be used to light up street lights, power buses and trains enhancing better transport facilities.

Benefits of Renewable Energy in Urban Planning

Implementation of this energy in urban planning can be beneficial in many ways.

Inexhaustible Supply

This energy is obtained from natural sources making it unlimited and a reliable energy supply. With big wind waves, bright skies, the earth’s heat and free-flowing water, an ample and never-ending energy supply should be adequate.

Flood Control

Dams constructed in the hydropower energy sources can be used as a water management system. These dams regulate the flowing water hence reducing the flood intensity in urban areas.

Reduction of Greenhouse Emissions

These sources emit little to no greenhouse gases making them environment-friendly and sustainable for climate. Using clean and sustainable energy sources can minimize the effects of greenhouse gases such as global warming.

Improved Public Health

Integrating this energy in urban areas during urban planning will improve the overall public health. Since these are clean energy sources, effects of health complication such as breathing problems and cancer are minimized.

Low Energy Costs

This energy offers a more affordable alternative to other energy sources. Although they usually require high upfront investments, they operate at low costs after installation. Using more of this energy can lower prices and demand of non-renewable energy sources.

Planning urban areas to accommodate the use of renewable energy sources is an essential and beneficial way to the society. This investment enhances sustainability

of environment by protecting the climate and reducing health risks. Implementing the use of this energy in urban planning also enhances policies to care and protect the environment. When most urban activities resort to using this energy, it enhances energy security promoting sustainable development.