LEED AP with Operations and Maintenance (O+M ) Practice Exam

Which renewable energy source is typically categorized under biomass?

1. Solar panels

2. Wind turbines

3. Biogas from organic waste

4. Geothermal systems

The correct answer is: Biogas from organic waste

Biogas from organic waste is categorized under biomass because it is derived from organic materials, such as plant and animal matter. Biomass energy specifically refers to the energy we can extract from living or recently living organisms. The process of generating biogas typically involves anaerobic digestion, where microorganisms break down organic matter in the absence of oxygen, producing methane and carbon dioxide, which can then be used as a renewable energy source. In contrast, the other options represent different categories of renewable energy. Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity, classifying them under solar energy. Wind turbines harness the kinetic energy of wind, placing them in the wind energy category. Geothermal systems utilize heat from within the Earth, aligning them with geothermal energy. Thus, while all these sources contribute to renewable energy generation, only biogas from organic waste falls under the biomass classification.