Abstract This paper assesses the costs and benefits to the environment of using nuclear energy. The paper explains that while theoretically nuclear energy is a clean, effective, efficient and almost inexhaustible form of power, public opinion is widely opposed to its usage. However, the author of this paper maintains that that opposition is based on misinformation. The paper explains the process of creating and harnessing nuclear energy, showing how it is nearly identical -- save the source of the heat -- to that used by geothermal energy plants and many coal-burning plants. The paper further demonstrates that nuclear energy is actually the safest, most environmentally-sound energy option and concludes that more should be done to support its adoption as America's primary sustainable energysource.
From the Paper "The public's apprehensive assessment of nuclear power remains its most serious obstacle. Although disasters and fatalities have been fairly limited, the potential for catastrophe is not overlooked by anyone. The Three Mile Island disaster seems to be burned into public perception regarding any discussion of nuclear energy (Beder, 224-5). Additionally, radioactive nuclear waste cannot be dumped back into the environment: it remains dangerous for thousands of years. As a consequence, collecting, relocating, and storing this waste presents environmental risks that most other energy resources are not associated with. Naturally, if proper precautions are taken and no mishaps occur; nuclear power is perhaps the most cost effective, cleanest, safest, and sustainable form of energy society has to offer. However, all rests upon its appropriate handling and the public's trust in its distributors."
Tags:energy, recycling, sustainable, global, warming, nuclear, coal, feul, environmentalism, power
Abstract This paper describes fusion and matter-anti-matter reactions as alternative energysources. The author rates these energysources. The paper explains that technical changes are required for their use as alternative energysources.
From the Paper "Energy is one of the most important issues facing human civilization. There are many alternative energy sources that are not based on fossil fuels. Nuclear fusion and matter-anti-matter reactions have been suggested as an energy source. Many researchers believe that nuclear fusion is the answer to the worlds energy needs. According to Roger O. Bangerter et al in The Fire Next Time, "Fusion takes advantage of the most powerful Force in nature, the so-called strong force, Which binds protons and neutron into atomic nuclei"(Bangerter et al. 21)."
Abstract This paper discusses solar energy in terms of natural resource economics and relates it to the concept of free market environmentalism. The paper also explains the benefits of using solar power as an energysource as opposed to fossil fuels.
From the Paper "Since the oil embargo, oil price increases have been a concern for many nations, especially for the United States. Today's high fuel prices speak to the imperative to find alternative energy sources to fossil fuels. Solar power is one such potentially viable alternative. Why use solar power? In addition to its value as an environmentally clean source of energy, solar power has economic value in terms of being a renewable resource that can be controlled by the nation or region using..."
Abstract The paper states that, in light of the effects of global warming,
it presents the case for alternative energysources, which are becoming popular. both because they do not contribute greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, and also because they are less expensive for the most part than electricity produced by coal, oil and gas. The paper reviews the positives and the negatives for wind energy, and discusses in depth the reasons why solar energy and biomass energysources are very attractive and offer consumers practical ways to spend less on heating and cooling homes.
Outline:
Wind Energy Problems with Windmills
Biomass
Solar Energy Passive Solar
Conclusion
From the Paper "The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), among the most visible and powerful advocacy and conservation organizations in the U.S. (www.nrdc.org), explains that currently California has the most wind power generation in America. Texas ranks second on the list of states with wind power, with "about half" of the wind plants that California has. The good news for consumers is that the cost of wind energy now is competitive with new coal-fired or gas-fired power plants, NRDC reports. Indeed the cost of wind energy has come down "85 percent in the past 20 years," according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
Wind of course is free, and it blows significantly, consistently, hard enough to turn rotors of windmills and produce reliable electricity in about one-fourth of the land area of the U.S., the UCS explains. The NRDC points out that windmills can be built "in a fraction of the time it takes to construct coal or natural gas power plants." Moreover, it takes just three to eight months for a windmill farm to "recoup its investment in building and installation" (NRDC). Why are windmill farms needed? About 68% of the energy produced in the U.S. today, the NRDC explains, comes from "burning polluting fossil fuels." Nuclear power plants and hydropower produce the rest, "with only a fraction coming from clean, renewable sources such as the wind, the sun, underground steam and biomass." But in 15 states laws have been passed that require power companies to produce "a percentage of electricity from renewable sources." In some states, like Texas for example, consumers can choose "Green Pricing" on their utility bills; that means the electricity that family uses will be exclusively from wind power, or other renewable sources. Meanwhile, in some countries, like Denmark, windmills have been put to use in massive numbers. According to the magazine www.Scandinavica.com, fully 20% of all the electricity in Denmark comes from wind energy."
Tags: natural, resources, conservation, organization, wind, power, generation, energy
Abstract This paper provides an overview of what energy means to humanity. The paper explores the problems associated with non-renewable energysources. This is followed by an examination of some of the more promising alternative energysources being investigated and used today. A summary of the research is provided in the conclusion.
Contents:
Introduction
Review and Discussion
Problems Associated with Non-renewable EnergySources Alternative Renewable EnergySources Summary and Conclusion
From the Paper "People have always been looking for alternative forms of energy to improve their chances for survival and simply to make their lives easier. From the first hitching of an ox to a plow, a horse to a wheeled cart, or a primitive water wheel for milling grain, people have always tried to minimize their labor and maximize their efforts. Up until about 1800, though, the primary source of fuel was wood and people still relied heavily on animals for transportation and power. However, since the Industrial Revolution, there has been in increasing reliance on nonrenewable fossil fuels such as coal and petroleum as a main source of energy. The costs associated with the use of such fossil fuels has been enormous, both in terms of environmental impact and the high economic costs involved with how these fuels must be obtained, refined and delivered to consumers. All of these steps require energy in and of themselves, and many observers are questioning the logic of continuing to pursue antiquated technologies in view of the alternative energy sources that have emerged over the last few decades."
Abstract This paper attempts to analyze the economic situation of current oil resources, the principles of supply and demand and the need for alternate energy as emphasized by President Bush. The paper discusses how if we want global economic stability, the energy sector requires due attention. The rising demand for oil, its increasing prices and possible depletion of oil resources demand alternative energysources. The paper contends that other countries should join the US in pushing for economic betterment of their countries and the world in general.
Outline:
Energy Scenario in US and Bush Administration
Economy of Energy Sector
Demand for Energy Supply of Energy Demand and Supply Equation
Oil Peak and Search for Alternative Sources Conclusions
From the Paper "President Bush has started giving more importance to alternate energy sources. In order to emphasize the need for alternate energy sources he toured advanced energy technology companies in Wisconsin and Michigan. He talked about different energy sources and new options like nuclear energy, solar power and a hybrid gas-electric car. "Overall, Bush's 2007 energy plan calls for a 22% increase in clean-energy research at the Department of Energy. It seeks to invest more in low-pollution coal-fired power plants, solar and wind technologies and nuclear energy" (Benedetto, 2006)."
Abstract This paper discusses the different types of alternate energysources. There are three reasons for the U.S. to find alternate energysources: cost, dependence on the Mid East, and the environment. This paper discusses the importance of both home and automobile alternate energysources. The U.S. has offered incentives for different companies to work on finding these sources.
From the Paper ""At some plants, electric and fuel costs alone can be reduced by more than 30 percent -- $200 million in one case - by taking advantage of smarter procurement methods already available but underutilized" (Industrial Energy, 3005, 27). These statistics are something that many businesses must consider with the fear of higher and higher energy costs. America has been warned on the news that natural gas prices can go up as high as 70 percent this winter. "But now, with natural gas rising to more than $7 per million BTUs and eastern coal up to $60 per ton, average U.S. electricity prices, by state, now range from 5 cents to 16 cents per kilowatt hour (kwh)" (Carey, Aston, Hibbard, and Grover, 2005, 36). Recently, the news warned that gasoline prices could go up as high as $5.00 a gallon during the Katrina crisis."
Abstract This paper examines how energy is the vital force powering business, manufacturing, and the transportation of goods and services to serve the American and world economies and how, if we don"t do something, there could be a problem. It looks at how we can"t continue to rely on fossil fuels as we do today because of their limited supplies and how we need to find new, renewable, and alternative energysources. It analyzes the technologies, such as hydropower, hydrogen and fuel cells, geothermal, and biomass, and shows how we need to decide what we are going to do to change our ways and help preserve the world we love.
From the Paper "The last predominate renewable energy source is from water or what is called hydropower. We can harness one of the earth's most predominate resources to our advantage and create clean renewable energy. According to the Alternative Energy Institute, ?There are several favorable features of hydropower. Anywhere sufficient rain falls, there will be rivers. If a particular section of river has the right terrain to form a reservoir, it may be suitable for dam construction. Once the system has been installed, no fossil fuels are required to produce the electricity, and the earth's hydrologic cycle naturally replenishes the "fuel" supply (Alternative Energy Institute)."
Abstract In this article, the writer discusses energy demand and supply in the United States. The writer examines the continuing need for energy imports. The writer looks at consumption issues in this paper, as the options of increased production, conservation and efficiency and alternative energysources are discussed.
From the Paper "The recent sharp increase in U.S. gasoline prices has called new attention to the problem of U.S. dependence on foreign energy sources. Attention has again been called to issues of energy consumption, domestic production, waste conservation and a host of related issues. All of this is taking place against the backdrop of an increasingly frustrating war in a major Middle Eastern oil-producing country. As the ... "
Abstract This paper begins with a description of the appearance and composition of coal and then takes a look at the history of coal as an energysource. The paper also discusses the negative effects of using coal as an energysource, explains how coal is mined, looks at the use and mining of coal from an economic perspective and looks at the advantages of using coal as an energysource.
From the Paper "Man has always aimed to acquire a fuel source that would be beneficial for the community. One such fuel that man stumbled upon was coal. "Coal has been used for heating since the cave man" (A Brief History of Coal Use). There are two types of mining that take place in order to acquire coal. One is an underground mining and the other being an open-pit mining. Coal is a sedimentary rock that is black or brownish black in color. Primarily it is composed of carbon and has many other elements in it including sulfur. The formation of coal is also a highly interesting procedure and it is formed from the remains of the plants that have been chemically altered, hardened, compacted as well as metamorphosed by pressure and heat over geologic time. There are four types of coal depending on the length of time they have been exposed to the geological processes. The lowest quality of coal is 'Lignite' which is also at times referred to as brown coal. Its use is exclusively reserved as fuel for steam-electric power. A compact form of lignite which is polished is known as 'Jet' and its use since the Iron Age has been as an ornament. The next level up is the 'Sub-bituminous' coal and its properties range from lignite to bituminous coal. Its primary purpose is the same as that of lignite. 'Bituminous' is normally black in color and is a dense coal. Apart from being used as fuel in steam-electric power generation, it is also used for heat and power applications in order to make coke. The highest quality coal is 'Anthracite' and it is used primarily for space heating in residential as well as commercial uses."
Abstract The paper discusses how the use of fossil fuels is a threat to sustainability if current usage patterns continue to harm the environment and rely on an uncertain long-term supply. The paper looks at the use of coal and relates that there is an increased potential to exploit this abundant resource in a manner that is sustainable, produces minimal harm to the environment and meets growing energy demands until non fossil fuel energy resources can be developed. The paper discusses potential source material for this research.
Outline:
The Potential of Coal for Meeting Future Energy Needs
Research Guide: Probing the Issue
Potential Biases: Navigating Personal Values and Issues
Potential Source Material for This Research
From the Paper "One of the most significant environmental issues affecting long-term sustainability is the world's extensive energy use. Despite claims that the world is dependent on oil, the situation is much more pervasive than that. In fact, modern societies are entirely dependent on energy. Fossil fuels are one of the most effective energy resources that civilization currently exploits. Technology and infrastructure for utilizing these resources are far more extensive than for any other kind of energy resource, currently making fossil fuels the preferred choice."
Abstract A discussion regarding the world's current dependence upon fossil fuels as the primary source of energy. The paper discusses other alternative types of energy such as wind power, solar power, nuclear power and natural gas.
From the Paper "Safe, efficient, reliable, and less environmentally damaging than traditional energy resources, natural gas is generally perceived as the most likely choice for the near future. Natural gas utilizes both a steam and gas cycle to generate power, and therefore, releases far fewer greenhouse gases into the atmosphere than coal or oil. But, "Even though air pollution concerns are much lower with gas fired plants, there are other environmental concerns including water use and water pollution. Combined cycle plants use about 10 million gallons of water per day, consuming 7 million and putting 3 million gallons back into nearby rivers," (Power Frontiers). Nevertheless, natural gas does contribute to global warming--less so than other methods but more so than nuclear energy. Both are comparably cheap and sustainable, but natural gas is considered to be safer to the public. All things considered, natural gas is economically viable, relatively safe, relatively clean, and sustainable: it poses the most realistic option for electric companies with its most serious competition coming from coal, and perhaps, nuclear power."
Tags: oil, coal, electricity, transportation, petroleum, petrol
Abstract This paper examines the phenomenon of energy subsidies and how they have had an effect on society. From giving the companies the influence they need to push drilling legislation to effects on world hunger, energy subsidies have been problematic for the ecology of this nation as well as the world; they have been a distorting force in the market place and have been detrimental to the social condition of this planet. From the pressures to drill ANWR to Third World poverty, energy subsidies have created a superpower out of the resource lobby. The various consequences of the subsidies are chronicled, and several solutions are also presented.
From the Paper "In order to deal with the transition to more renewable sources and a more efficient economy, there is no reason why those who are "environmentally virtuous" should not be rewarded. Belgium has cut sales taxes for energy saving devices by 2/3 of the original amount and conversely has made those who drive inefficient vehicles pay more in road taxes. Denmark and Norway have also tied vehicle size to the amount of taxes paid on them. The best part of this plan is that does not change the amount of taxes paid and does not change a given nations position, meaning that it can be done with only that one nation's interest in mind."
An outline of the responsibilities and research of the renewable energysource ESEP group. In addition to describing the roles and each member of the group, the proposal explains the urgency and significance of perfecting non fossil fuel energysources.
5,415 words (approx. 21.7 pages), 23 sources, 2001, $ 133.95
Abstract This research discusses the world's current energy crisis. Fossil energy comprises the majority of the world's energysource; however, these fuels pose threats to the environment and do not provide a renewable source of energy. Analysts predict that the world will run out of fossil fuels in forty to fifty years. Due to this impending crisis, experts research and attempt to determine renewable energysources that meet the world's growing energy needs while considering the technical, environmental, financial, and social impact of these alternatives. This report summarizes four of the most developed renewable energy options that could feasibly replace fossil fuels as a source of energy, including fuel cells, solar power, wind power, and hydroelectric power. Fuel cells use substances such as methanol and oxygen to react and provide energy; however, obtaining a clean, reliable hydrogen source and lowering the cost must precede implementation. Solar power harnesses the sun's thermal with photovoltaic cells to produce electricity; the paper focuses on concentrating solar technologies and the addition research required to employ this alternative fuel source. Wind power uses turbines situated in a field to capture the kinetic energy of the wind; as one of the most frequently used renewable energy resources, this solution may become feasible as prices decrease. Hydropower uses flowing water through a system of turbines and generators to produce vast amounts of clean energy, but its environmental impacts are serious and widespread. All of these renewable energysources have advantages and disadvantages when it comes to producing energy on a large scale. Some of these factors include cost, efficiency, environmental factors, and political and social factors. The report recommends an increase in research for each of these fields, and concludes that these renewable energysources will only develop if society as a whole accepts the financial burden that accompanies them. Overall, the financial burden of renewable resources does not compare to the devastating effects that continued fossil energy usage will leave on the environment.
From the Paper "As the global energy crisis worsens, scientists and researchers internationally race to refine and implement renewable energy resources to provide societies basic power needs that do not depend upon the consumption of natural resources. Within the next century, if energy consumers continue to rely on resources such as coal, petroleum, and other fossil fuels at the current rate, society will deplete its fuel reserves, specifically petroleum, to the extent that alternate power sources become necessary to maintain current standards of living based on power sources. Environmentalists, scientists, and the general public target fossil fuel usage as the primary cause for the environment's poor condition; renewable resources will offer an opportunity to prevent and possibly improve damage caused by pollution from power procurement. Globally, consumers are ill-prepared for our inevitable reliance upon renewable energy resources; moreover, developing countries in the process of electrifying their citizens will not have the means to progress in the same energy-technology development cycle and cannot base their tenuous energy dependence on a rapidly waning fuel source. In the absence of fossil fuels, people must rely on new forms of transportation and energy to power our increasingly
technology-based society. Renewable resources, such as fuel cells, solar power, wind power, and hydro power offers an environmentally-savvy alternative to fossil fuels, yet many of these technologies require further research, refinement, and optimization before we can rely upon them as a substitute for fossil fuels in basic power needs (SolarPACES 1). The problem involves ensuring global preparedness when low energy reserves mandate the use of renewable energy resources through proper allocation of renewable energy technology, ethical support from the public and the government, financial flexibility, and environmental sustainability."
Abstract This paper examines how the energy crisis that plagues many American cities has been at the center of much debate. It looks at information about current energysources, such as hydroelectricity, wind energy, nuclear energy, and fossil fuel. The discussion also covers alternative energysources, such as solar energy, hydrogen energy, and biomass energy. It seeks to explain the expense, transportation, production, and storage of these energysources and focuses on issues of practicality, such as current availability and renewal. It also discusses efficiency and environmental ramifications.
Outline
Introduction
Current Forms of Energy Hydroelectricity
Wind Energy Nuclear Energy Fossil Fuel
Alternative forms of Energy Solar Energy Hydrogen Energy Biomass energy Efficiency, Practicality and Environmental Ramifications
Conclusion
From the Paper "Wind Energy is also a current source of electricity for millions of people. (Blackburn, 1987) Utilities can use the energy from the wind to propel vessels or to pump water. (Blackburn, 1987) wind energy is rather inexpensive especially in remote areas. (Blackburn, 1987) According to an article in the Geographical Review, wind energy is extremely efficient and is now the fastest growing source of renewable energy. (Pasqualetti 2000) Blackburn (1987) asserts that wind energy can produce energy for a cost of 12-15? per kilowatt hour before tax benefits come into consideration. (Blackburn, 1987)"
