How photovoltaic cells convert sunlight directly into electrical energy. A look at the government's incentives for household photovoltaic systems in Germany.

Earth's physical resources: renewable energy - for iPod/iPhone

The future of solar power

Earth's physical resources: renewable energy

Which European country has the best wind resource, and which has the most turbines?

Wind power in Europe

The story of Kirkheaton wind farm, run by Northern Electric and AMEC Border Wind.

Wind power in England

The story behind some of the first wind farms developed in the UK. The concerns and obstacles these projects faced at the outset.

Wind power in Wales

How do we make biogas and what forms of biomass are we currently using in Europe?

What is biofuel?

Introducing Loch Sloy, the biggest hydroelectric scheme in Britain.

Hydroelectricity

Solar power stations in Holland generate energy, even on cloudy days. Examining the photovoltaic schemes in operation in the UK and the rest of Europe.

Photovoltaic and solar thermal panels

Will wave energy eventually overtake wind power? A look at today's technology in operation and the offshore devices of the future.

Wave and tidal energy

How extreme heat occurs beneath the Earth's surface, and how aquifers and bore-holes can provide a valuable source of energy.

Geothermal energy

As the world responds to climate change, we explore whether sustainable energy can satisfy our need for endless economic growth, without radical changes in the way we live. This album examines power sources which provide cleaner alternatives to fossil fuels, such as wind power, biomass, hydro power, wave and tidal power, solar and geothermal power. The nine video tracks introduce the different approaches adopted in Britain and across Europe, the challenges faced and the projects of the future. This material forms part of S278, Earth's physical resources: origin, use and environmental impact.