Renewable energy

![Global public support for different energy sources (2011) based on a poll by Ipsos Global @dvisor[1]](/uploads/202501/11/Global_public_support_for_energy_sources_(Ipsos_2011)2531.png)

Renewable energy is generally defined as energy that is collected from resources which are naturally replenished on a human timescale, such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides, waves, and geothermal heat. Renewable energy often provides energy in four important areas: electricity generation, air and water heating/cooling, transportation, and rural (off-grid) energy services.