MENTION THE MAIN RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES THAT ARE CURRENTLY VIABLE IN SOUTH AFRICA AND ALSO HIGHLIGHT THE ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF EACH.

There are a multitude of energy sources that exist, but at the same time
there are but several that can be considered in the South African
context. These are wind energy, solar energy and full-scale nuclear
energy.

Wind turbines that are arranged on wind farms accomplish the harnessing
of wind energy. This is an unlimited source of energy at favorable
sites.

ADVANTAGES
Wind farms can be built in 3-6 months
Emits no harmful air pollutants during operation
No water needed for cooling Space
Manufacture and use produce little water pollution Can

DISADVANTAGES
Visual pollution
Noise and interference with communication systems
Can interfere with flight patterns of migratory birds
The production of wind turbines could be costly and detrimental to the
environment (in terms of processes)

The main source of solar energy is the sun. Solar energy can be
converted directly in to electrical energy by photovoltaic cells.

ADVANTAGES
Reliable
Quick and easy installation
Little maintenance
No carbon dioxide emissions Net useful energy yield is fairly high

DISADVANTAGES
Presently costs are high (production)
Visual pollution
Limits could be placed on there use by insufficient amounts of gallium
or cadmium.
Production could produce moderate levels of water pollution from
chemical wastes introduced through the manufacturing process

In nuclear fission, neutrons split the nuclei of atoms such as uranium
and plutonium to release energy as high temperature heat. This heat
produces high-pressure steam that spins turbines to generate
electricity.

ADVANTAGES
Large supply of fuel
Low environmental impact (without accidents)
Moderate land use
Emits 1/6 as much CO2 as coal
Low accident risk-multiple safety systems

DISADVANTAGES
High cost
Low net energy yield
Catastrophic accidents can happen
Long-term storage of radioactive wastes

http://www.lenntech.com/search/search.cgi?VTI-GROUP=0&zoom_query=renewable+energy

Dane McDonald
Department of Biodiversity and Conservation Biology
University of the Western Cape
Private Bag X17
Bellville 7535