As humanity’s unquenchable thirst for energy continues to increase, many fuel reserves that are used to generate that energy are decreasing. As we use the world's natural resources, humanity is facing up to the fact that many resources that we take for granted today are finite, and one day will run out. Whilst we still have these resources available it is important to rise to the challenge and prepare for a sustainable energy future today. This does not necessarily mean switching away from what we have available today, but it does mean being more proactive about conserving what we have available (through more efficient conversion devices for example) and diversifying our energy mix to reduce our reliance on particular sources, in case of unpredictable eventualities that could seriously impact upon globalised supply chains.
Energy security refers to the extent to which we can be sure that energy is available when we require it.
It is likely that a mixture of renewable energy technologies, together with low-carbon technologies such as nuclear energy, will form the landscape of the energy mix of the future.
Distributed Generation (DG) energy grids have the potential to conserve energy as electrons will not need to be transported over long distances. As power is produced close to where it is used heat can also often be used, rather than lost in cooling towers. DG energy grids are also likely to improve energy security as power will be produced in many locations rather than few.
The fossil fuel resource is today one of the biggest issues facing mankind. Industry and society has become dependent on machines that convert hydrocarbon fuels into energy, powering 21st century technology. To prolong what we have left we must use what we have available today responsibly as well as develop new sustainable fuels. These include renewable hydrogen, and bio-fuels. |
