Alternative energy

Alternative fuels are often discussed but there is no accepted definition of the term. For some alternative fuels can be broadly described as pretty much everything except fossil fuels. For others alternative fuel means renewable energy, such as biomass, alcohol fuels, hydrogen and nuclear fuel. Whatever the definition, demand for alternative fuels is high, particularly for fuel which can be produced sustainably and economically.

Renewable energy includes technologies such as wave power, hydro-power, wind power, solar power, geothermal power and thermal depolymerization (using steam to convert organic material waste into useful hydrocarbon fuels).

Biomass refers to biological matter which can be converted into a fuel. Examples include alcohol (ethanol) fuels obtained from plants with high sugar/starch content and biodiesel made from plants or algae production.

Hydrogen can also be considered as an alternative fuel as it exists in abundance in the form of water. However hydrogen has to be created from its compound form, water (usually using electrolysis) before use and it requires more energy input to produce hydrogen than is generated with its combustion. This energy input is usually in the form of conventional fossil fuels. Alternative fossil fuels like CNG (compressed natural gas) are also considered as alternative fuels as they are cleaner than conventional gas or diesel. However they are not renewable or sustainable so many discount the wisdom of turning to these alternatives which rely on
fossil derived hydrocarbons.

Nuclear power is a controversial energy source, particularly nuclear fission (the technology that drives all nuclear power plants today) due to the radioactive waste produced and the fear of accidents such as those which occurred at Chernobyl and Three Mile Island. Safe long term storage of nuclear waste is another problem that has yet to be solved. Nuclear fusion is another matter, promises of clean and sustainable energy abound but as yet no successful fusion plant is in operation, the first commercial fusion plant is hoped to get into production within the next 30-40 years.

The alternative energy industry is still relatively new and advancing at an unprecedented rate, however it should be noted that this current energy crisis is not the first, during the middle ages in Europe mankind had all but decimated the forests using wood as the main source of fuel and building materials, this in turn caused food shortages as deforestation removed the natural habitat of many animals hunted for food. This energy crisis was “solved” by turning to coal for energy and mass cultivation of new crops such as potatoes and maize in deforested areas. A few centuries later as coal reserves were recognised as being finite not unlimited, another energy crisis was averted (actually just delayed as we now know) by turning to oil and gas as the main energy sources. It is about time we learned from history instead of repeating our mistakes!

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