Nuclear power's share of global electricity production is falling, and that for renewable energy is rising very slowly. Experience shows that a new energy source first exhibits exponential growth, but then growth slows to linear when the energy source has around 1% (global) market share--wind is already in this position. Given that carbon capture and storage is going nowhere (too costly, too energy intensive) will alternatives to fossil fuels prove "too little, too late"?
The energy spent by human communiti must increase nevertheless of limited energy sources. In creased population of the world is main reason. New materials also need more energi for fabrication. New energy sources are a desired dream. Renewable energy sources are real alternative for prognosticated future of energy generation.
Renewable energy may prove to be a perfect alternative to fossil fuels in the near future, judging from intensive research in this area. A typical example is the exploration and exploitation of other planets for solar energy utilization. Although, it is at its infant stage but I'm convinced that, if the level of research is wholly supported there shall be "plenty" of energy. If this level of energy is achieved population increase would, therefore, be immaterial. Be that as it may, the level of renewable energy is "too little", as it is now, but does not suffice to say it is "too late" on the basis of time frame.
To use other planet for solar energy we need of much more effective wireless transfere of energy, or transportation as clean fuel. Now graund and ocean surfaces on our planet are more perespective. Wind energy, tidal and earth-thermal have a good potential for near future.
@Georgi, to use other planets for solar energy we quite need effective wireless transfer of energy. The transfer of energy may be easier, but the problem would be in what form? I'm of the opinion that we need good energy conversion systems, for example, electrical energy to microwave (at source) and microwave to electrical energy (at sink). I presume that the secondary form of the energy, microwave, can easily be transported effectively. Any contrary opinions?
@Ogheneruona, yes microwave energi is one real way to transfere energy to few kilometers I suppose, due to not very focused beam of microwave radiation. Probably laser beam is better, but conversion efficiency is not enough high. Electron beam is also potential tool, but for interplanet scale of transport have hard work to solv the needed efficiency of energy transportation
- Badges
- Science topic