Friday, November 27, 2009

Is Alternative Energy Potent Enough?

By Adriana Noton

The future of the planet depends largely on our ability to tap into alternative energy resources and create successful and long term environmental solutions. There is no doubt that while there have been ample promises over the years the political and ethical debate that has caused progress to trickle instead of surge has the potential to be ongoing. With the planet creeping closer and closer to peril the continued need for championing is much appreciated.

While other countries are proving that there are many ways to convene on the subject and move forward aggressively there are many here at home (including many politicians and potential investors) that want to consider whether we can offer restoration of clean air energy projects. How much is the output? What happens when there are weeks on end with little to no wind or even ample sunshine? There are some heavy political feet that are being dragged while this question is answered.

Geographical considerations also complicate the matter, as there are factors that can come into play that make the answer to biggest question obsolete from region to region. What might work in one area may very well not in another. Wind is plentiful along the ocean, at least until you reach June, July, and August. At this point there is the option for sun power yet many wonder how cost effective it would be to have dual services running from a single area of generation.

As much as the environment is at stake in the progress of alternative energy, the flip side indicates that the careers of many politicians can be at stake as well. Unfortunately, when you politicize an issue like this one it becomes a campaign platform for some while it becomes a torch to bear for others. If any politician supported the resources it would take build an "experimental" or "initial" system for adequate delivery and the system failed, the political consequences could be huge.

First, try finding two politicians that can agree on renewable or alternative power sources and their plan for execution. Second, there is a limited knowledge regarding the initial ability to support the power demand. In the early stages it may very well be a doubling up of power sources, one traditional and one alternative, in order to test the systems and make sure that everything is moving forward without massive hiccups.

Some suggest giving the power to the people, literally. If each household became eligible for a significant tax credit for taking themselves off the power grid then eventually the government could start to mandate that consumers become responsible for making their own electricity through alternative energy resources. The biggest flaw with this issue is that it leaves the renters of the world without much power to stay safe and get clean.

With these potential issues, science and technology are still fighting hard to create the most effective and efficient alternative energy sources. The more we uncover through technology and science the more we can determine whether or not we can sustain power throughout the year and without major system flaws.

The new and improved floating wind turbine is a perfect example of the progress and the direction we are heading. This wind turbine is now aptly making itself useful by connecting to the power grid. It is hoped that by studying these improvements we can all look forward to life saving alternative energy that can produce the necessary power for humanity.

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