The future for current energy sources
What Future for Renewable Energies?
10/14/2010
© Keblow
Reducing greenhouse gases, the increasing scarcity of fossil fuels, and reducing energy dependence- there are many reasons to choose renewable energy.
However, because of their development and production cost as well as their storage, transport, and distribution costs, renewable energy sources are not yet fully competitive. How are these forms of energy set to develop into the future and what will be their share in the energy mix of tomorrow?
A detailed view of the future of...
...Solar Energy
The use of solar energy has soared in the last decade and this is set to continue as the technologies become more mature and more efficient.
...Hydropower
Hydropower, a well-developed energy source with low operating costs, will likely play a significant role in meeting the environmental challenges of the future.
...Wind Energy
Wind energy is a clean, renewable way of producing electricity. Much of its future development will undoubtedly be offshore.
...Geothermal Energy
Although as yet in its infancy, geothermal energy has enormous potential for development. More and more projects designed to make the most of this inexhaustible resource are in the works.
...Biomass
On a global scale, this is the main renewable energy, providing biofuels, biogas, and wood energy. Now encouraged in industrialized countries, wood consumption is falling in developing regions because of urbanization. At the same time, researchers are experimenting with new uses for biomass such as bioplastics and plant fibers.
...Waste Recycling
Methanization has significant environmental advantages and it is an alternative to incineration. It reduces land pollution and greenhouse gases, so its development seems assured.
