Environmental Science For Dummies, 2nd Edition

Chapter 15

Shifting Gears: Alternative Energy

IN THIS CHAPTER

Using organic matter for fuel

Generating power with water and wind

Finding heat energy deep in the Earth and converting sunlight to power

Factoring in efficiency and capacity

Understanding the importance of energy conservation

Modern living requires huge amounts of energy. From the lights you turn on in your house to the goods you consume each day, everything requires an energy source. Where does all this fuel come from? In the past, most of it came from fossil fuels, but over the last few decades, as scientists have come to understand the role of fossil fuels in the changing climate, they’ve begun to pursue more research and development in alternative energy sources. In fact, one of the top concerns for environmental scientists these days is finding ways to harness energy from renewable sources and use that energy in the most efficient way possible.

In this chapter, I describe the current alternatives to fossil fuel energy, ...