Green encyclopedia
Wind turbines — how do they work and what should you know about them?
Renewable energy sources are not limited to photovoltaics or hydroelectric power. In areas with strong winds, it is also possible to harness their potential to generate electricity. Here, we take a closer look at wind turbines—both large-scale industrial installations and smaller household solutions. How do they work, and is wind power a cost-effective source of energy?
What is greenwashing? Examples of the phenomenon
Today, being “eco-friendly” is a global trend that more and more companies are following. Many do so in good faith, with the genuine intention of benefiting the environment. However, there are also companies that, under the guise of implementing ecological initiatives, hide actions that have nothing to do with sustainability. Such unethical practices are known as greenwashing. Read on to learn how to recognize greenwashing and how to counteract it — what is it really?
How is electricity generated? Everything you need to know
Today, it may seem obvious that practically every home has access to electricity, with power flowing from every outlet. However, electricity itself was not invented—it simply exists. The history of electrical engineering, on the other hand, is relatively short and dates back to the 17th century. Of course, several centuries had to pass between William Gilbert’s invention of the first versorium and the production of photovoltaic panels, but in both cases, electricity is involved. So, what exactly is it, and how is it generated?
Green building certifications overview: LEED, BREEAM, WELL and other
In the mid-1980s, media attention focused on tragedies such as the Chernobyl nuclear explosion, the Bophal disaster in India, and the Exxon Valdez spill. As economic development increasingly interfered with the environment, people began to look for ways to make building structures safer. This is how the concept of Green Building was born. What certifications can companies planning infrastructure apply for today, and why invest in green building?
Carbon Credits – What Is Their Role in Combating Climate Change?
Mitigating and preventing climate change are goals that require decisive and large-scale action. One of the key elements of the global strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is the Carbon Credit system. It serves as an incentive mechanism that promotes the use of renewable energy and reduces the negative environmental impact of businesses.
Electricity – everything you need to know about it
Moc prądu to jedno z kluczowych pojęć w elektroenergetyce i elektronice. Dobrze je znać zarówno prowadząc gospodarstwo domowe, jak i przedsiębiorstwo. Dzięki znajomości tego zagadnienia można zrozumieć, w jaki sposób efektywnie zarządzać zużyciem energii elektrycznej, żeby zarówno urządzenia elektryczne, jak i całe instalacje służyły nam jak najdłużej w pełnej wydajności. Dlaczego moc prądu ma duże znaczenie dla naszej codzienności? Jak przeliczać moc na zużycie prądu? I dlaczego nie tylko inżynierowie powinni wiedzieć z „czym się ją je”? O tym w poniższym artykule.
Nuclear energy – the pros and cons of this form of energy
Energia jądrowa może kojarzyć się z działaniami zbrojnymi, ale znajduje ona zastosowanie również do wielu celów pokojowych. Stosuje się ją w radiomedycynie, przemyśle lotniczym i metalurgicznym, czy wreszcie do zasilania elektrowni atomowych. Całkowity udział energetyki jądrowej w wytwarzaniu energii elektrycznej na świecie w 2021 roku wynosił 10,2%. Przyjrzyjmy się bliżej, jak działa ta technologia. Co to jest energia jądrowa, jak powstaje i czy jest się czego obawiać?
Climate neutrality – what is it and why is it important?
Climate neutrality is a state in which the amount of greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere is fully offset by measures aimed at reducing or absorbing them. In an ideal situation, net emissions are equal to zero. The European Union is striving for climate neutrality, with the ambition of becoming the first continent in the world to achieve this goal. Implementing measures and designing an ecosystem that will enable climate neutrality and greenhouse gas emission reductions are key to slowing down the pace of climate change.
What are electricity rate groups and how do they affect bills?
Electricity is used by both consumers and businesses, and it is difficult to imagine the economy functioning without electricity. However, while electricity is supplied to all points of consumption, its purchase can be billed on different terms. This is decided by electricity tariff groups. What is this and when is it worth changing the tariff group?
How to transfer electricity to a new owner? A practical step-by-step guide
In order to use electricity in a given property, a relevant contract with the energy provider must be signed. When the owner or occupant of the property changes, it is necessary to transfer the electricity meter to the new person. How to transfer the electricity contract quickly and without issues? Check out our guide!
Energy-efficient building – what should it be characterized by?
The use of a building is always associated with energy consumption required to maintain thermal comfort, heat water, provide lighting, and power other devices. The higher the demand for this energy, the higher the costs of operating the building, and the greater its impact on the environment. To reduce these costs and impact, more and more investors are opting to build energy-efficient buildings. What are the requirements for an energy-efficient building?
Energy origin guarantees – how do they support the development of green energy?
Energy origin guarantees are an element of the European Union's policy – and by extension, also that of the member states – aimed at supporting the development of the renewable energy market. On one hand, they serve an image-building purpose. On the other, they are tradable and should be considered a real profit for companies. What exactly is an energy origin guarantee, how to obtain it, and how can it be used?