How does the generation of electricity contribute to global warming?

Answer 1

Most electricity is generated by burning fossil fuels like coal, oil and natural gas. These are all non-renewable sources of energy. This burning releases carbon dioxide into the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. This is contributing to global warming.

Electricity made from hydro-electric dams, wind generators, solar power, geothermal power, or nuclear power plants would release hardly any CO2. This is renewable energy.

Conservation of energy by any means, such as turning down your thermostat a few degrees, changing light bulbs to compact fluorescent, etc can be helpful to both your electric bill and the environment.

People think there is little effect by one person trying to save, but actually when many of us do these little things, whole power plants worth of energy can be conserved.

Very simply, it depends on how the electricity was first generated. Coal-burning electric plants which are the major source of power in many countries round the world, make the CO2 that contributes to global warming by burning fuel. Electricity which is made from hydro-electric dams, wind generators, or nuclear power plants would make hardly any CO2. Conservation of energy by any means, such as turning your thermostat a few degrees, changing light bulbs to compact fluorescent, can be helpful to both your electric bill and the environment. People think there is little effect by one person trying to save, but actually when many of us do these little things, whole power plants worth of energy can be conserved. Google "energy conservation" for many more tips on ways to save.