Electricity is generated from various primary energy sources through a process that converts other forms of energy into electrical energy. It does not occur freely in nature but must be produced, typically at power plants or stations

Main Sources of Electricity

• Fossil Fuels: Coal, natural gas, and oil are burned to create heat, which produces steam that drives turbines connected to generators. This method accounts for the majority of global electricity production, with coal and gas being the largest contributors

• Nuclear Power: Nuclear fission reactions release heat to produce steam, which drives turbines and generators. Nuclear energy has been a significant source since the 1950s and contributes a substantial portion of electricity worldwide

• Renewable Energy Sources:
  • Hydropower: Uses the kinetic energy of flowing or falling water to turn turbines.
  • Wind Power: Wind turbines convert wind's kinetic energy into electricity.
  • Solar Power: Photovoltaic (PV) cells convert sunlight directly into electrical current.
  • Geothermal: Uses heat from the Earth's interior to generate steam for turbines.
  • Biomass and Waste Gases: Utilize organic materials or gases from waste to produce energy

How Electricity is Generated

Most commercial electricity is produced by turbines driven by mechanical energy from steam, water, or wind. The turbine spins a generator, which converts mechanical energy into electrical energy via electromagnetic induction

Electricity Delivery

After generation, electricity is transmitted through the grid and distributed to homes, schools, and businesses. Energy suppliers purchase electricity from generators and sell it to consumers

Summary

Electricity comes from converting energy stored in fossil fuels, nuclear reactions, and renewable sources into electrical energy, primarily through turbines and generators in power plants. The global electricity mix is still dominated by fossil fuels but is increasingly incorporating renewable sources to address environmental concerns