Renewable Resources

Non-renewable Resources

Depletion

Renewable resources cannot be depleted over time.

Non-renewable resources deplete over time.

Sources

Renewable resources include sunlight, water, wind and also geothermal sources such as hot springs and fumaroles.

Non-renewable resources includes fossil fuels such as coal and petroleum.

Environmental Impact

Most renewable resources have low carbon emissions and low carbon footprint.

Non-renewable energy has a comparatively higher carbon footprint and carbon emissions.

Cost

The upfront cost of renewable energy is high. For instance, generating electricity using technologies running on renewable energy is costlier than generating it with fossil fuels.

Non-renewable energy has a comparatively lower upfront cost.

Infrastructure Requirements

Infrastructure for harvesting renewable energy is prohibitively expensive and not easily accessible in most countries.

Cost-effective and accessible infrastructure is available for non-renewable energy across most countries.

Area Requirements

Requires a large land/ offshore area, especially for wind farms and solar farms.

Comparatively lower area requirements.