Alternative Sources of Energy to Fossil Fuels

Wind power is one of several alternative energy sources.

With supplies of fossil fuels decreasing and more awareness of the impact of using them at all, consumer interest in alternative energy sources is rising. Numerous alternatives to oil, gas, coal and other fossil fuels exist, and although all could be described as "cleaner," none is perfect. Not all alternatives are available everywhere, and even the "greenest" energy source has an environmental impact. Some have a social impact. Switching over to these technologies may be necessary, but an environmentally friendly society should still place emphasis on reducing, as well as changing, energy consumption.

Types

The alternative energy sources include wind, nuclear, hydropower, solar, biofuels and geothermal energy. Wind, solar, geothermal and hydropower are all exploited by, essentially, putting suitable equipment, such as a solar panel, in the right place. Biofuels come from crops, and nuclear power requires large, purpose-built power stations.

Advantages

One of the main advantages of alternative energy sources is that, for all practical purposes, they are infinitely renewable. New supplies do not have to be located or exploited, with the associated environmental and economic costs. Once the infrastructure is in place, they do not add to air pollution, ocean acidification or climate change. Some, such as solar panels, wind turbines and wood-burning stoves, are available on such a small scale that one household can have its own energy source, with only maintenance costs to consider.

Issues

The issues depend on the energy source. One of the most serious is associated with ethanol production. Ethanol production for biofuels has been linked to the world's food crisis by the International Food Policy Research Institute and many others, though some governments deny the connection. The link has been made because biofuel production may be increasing the cost of grains. Additionally, fertile agricultural land in developing countries increasingly goes toward biofuel production, rather than producing food. Nuclear energy has long been controversial because of the risk of accidents similar to Chernobyl and the necessity of storing hazardous waste securely for centuries. Even wind, solar and hydropower have drawbacks and can cause localized habitat destruction.

Implementation

Despite the drawbacks, alternative energy sources provide the basis for a more economically and environmentally sustainable society. Implementation generally requires using more than one source. Although in some areas, one source, such as wind, could supply all the energy needs of a community, this requires massive investment. Most communities need a variety if fossil fuels are to be phased out completely. Implementation on a small scale is quite possible as well and most households and businesses could obtain at least part of their energy from a renewable source. The initial cost for a solar panel or wind turbine is normally substantial but eventually the technology may pay for itself.

References

• International Food Policy Research Institute: Biofuels and Food Security
• BBC News: Bioenergy -- Fuelling the Food Crisis?
• National Renewable Energy Laboratory: Learning about Renewables -- Renewable Energy Basics