Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Non-renewable energy refers to energy sources that cannot be replenished or regenerated within a human lifespan. These are finite resources that will eventually run out.
Related terms
Fossil fuels: Fossil fuels are a type of non-renewable energy formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals. They include coal, oil, and natural gas.
Greenhouse gases: Greenhouse gases are gases in the Earth's atmosphere that trap heat and contribute to global warming. Burning non-renewable fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
Renewable energy refers to energy sources that can be naturally replenished or regenerated within a human lifespan, such as solar power, wind power, and hydropower.