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nonrenewable energyEnergy derived from sources that, for all practical purposes, cannot be easily made or renewed. Fossil fuels, which include coal, oil, and natural gas are considered to be nonrenewable energy sources because the rate of their formation is so slow on human timescales that they are effectively being used without any replenishment. Uranium (used in nuclear power) is also non-renewable, although its reserves are very large compared to its rate of use. Compare with renewable energy. Related category• ECOLOGY AND THE ENVIRONMENTAlso on this site: Encyclopedia of Science Encyclopedia of History |