Power for the Future PDF

# Power for the Future There are more than 7 billion people on Earth right now, and according to the United Nations, there will be about 9 billion by the year 2050. International reports say that the world's demand for energy may double by that time. With climate change, it's obvious that we need b...

# Power for the Future There are more than 7 billion people on Earth right now, and according to the United Nations, there will be about 9 billion by the year 2050. International reports say that the world's demand for energy may double by that time. With climate change, it's obvious that we need better ways to answer our demands for more and more energy in the future. Luckily, in many parts of the world, large renewable energy projects are helping that effort. Here are just a few examples of what's happening now. ## Hydroelectric Power in South America The Itaipu Dam lies on the border of Brazil and Paraguay, and was built between 1966 and 1984. Since then, it has produced more power than any other hydroelectric dam in the world. The seven power plants at the dam can each produce 200 megawatts of energy, for a total possible production of 14,000 megawatts. ## Geothermal Power in Iceland Because of its large number of active volcanoes, Iceland is able to produce more than a quarter of its electricity and heating power from geothermal energy. Geothermal energy plants take heat energy inside the Earth and use it to create power. Two geothermal power plants in southeastern Iceland together produce over 420 megawatts of electricity. ## Solar Power in Morocco The solar power plant outside of Ouarzazate, in Morocco is one of the largest in the world. The solar panels get energy from the powerful Sahara desert sun. When the power plant is finished, it will create 580 megawatts of electricity. This is enough energy for 1.1 million people.