What is the role of renewable energy to climate change?

Energy use from fossil fuel is the dominant source of greenhouse gas emissions. If we could produce all our energy from renewable sources tomorrow we would have very little problem with climate change.

The main source of energy today is fossil fuels (coal, oil and natural gas). We burn these substances to extract the chemical energy in them, turning it into the energy we want. This creates carbon dioxide gas, which leads to climate change.

Fossil fuels are described as a "non-renewable" energy source, because once we dig/pump them out of the ground and burn them, they're used up. They are not replaced. (Actually they are, but very very slowly.)

Renewable energy includes hydroelectric power, tidal power, wind, solar, geothermal and biomass. These are not depleted when we use them. If I put a solar panel on my roof, that will not make it less sunny tomorrow.

Renewable energy does not cause carbon dioxide emissions, and therefore does not contribute to climate change, like burning fossil fuels does. (Actually, nuclear power is non-renewable, but does not contribute to climate change.)

First answer by ID2101144538. Last edit by Cobber43. Contributor trust: 57 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 72 [recommend question]