A review of renewableenergy and federal and state government tax credits being offered to businesses and consumers who purchase and install renewableenergy systems.
Abstract This paper defines renewableenergy, reviews the need for renewableenergy and discusses the benefits of renewableenergy use. The paper further discusses the tax credits that are currently being offered for the purchase and installation of renewableenergy systems. The paper then analyzes the effectiveness of this tax credit policy.
From the Paper "There are many origins of renewable energy. Renewable energy can be derived from wind energy, water power, solar energy, geothermal energy, biomass as in liquid biofuel, biogas and solid biomass. Because of the large number of sources for renewable energy, the United States could be self sufficient in harvesting this form of energy which is one of the bonuses it offers. This is one of the reasons the federal government is now offering tax incentives for renewable energy systems. "One of the major goals of this policy is to reduce our dependence on imported oil and OPEC's influence on free market prices by utilizing more of our own domestic energy resources, including renewables" (News, p. 1). "
Abstract The paper relates that renewableenergy is playing a large role in Middle Eastern countries' infrastructure building in the public and corporate realms. The paper discusses how solar and wind energy are at the core of their current interest in renewableenergy, as such resources are available in the majority of the region. The paper concludes that the foundation of the Middle East region is as dependent upon the realization of a balanced energy system as is the rest of the world.
From the Paper "In the literature regarding the Middle East and the utilization of renewable energy there is a great deal of evidence of interest and even application. This is despite the region's critical interest in fossil fuels as a resource for change, as oil has been for the last 20 or so years for some countries and longer for others. (Cordesman 1997) Over 80 percent of the natural oil reserves are found in the Middle East. (Borowitz 1999) It seems that renewable energy, and especially photovoltaic technology and wind energy, partly as outsiders have been a big part of modernization in many Middle Eastern nations as a result of relatively new found wealth, allowing infrastructure building in the public and corporate realms, and the historical fear of the potentially fatal rate of decline of oil reserves in any one region."
Abstract In this paper the author examines the sources available to create power and electricity. He looks at how technology is used to take advantage of the forces of nature available. The paper highlights how up until recently only the power created by falling water has been explored and used successfully in a number of applications. Sun, wind, waves, rivers, tides and the heat from radioactive decay in the earth's core are all looked at as being renew ables, in other words they give continuous sources. The paper concludes with a look at all of the environmental aspects of using these renewable sources, the arguments for and against each one including the aesthetic issues that arise. Introduction Solar Energy Wind Energy Rivers Geothermal Relating Renewable to Base-Load Electricity Demand Environmental Aspects
From the Paper "The main role of solar energy in the future will be that of direct heating. Much of our energy need is for heat below 60oC - e.g. in hot water systems. A lot more, particularly in industry, is for heat in the range 60 - 110oC. [2] Together these may account for a significant proportion of primary energy use in industrialized nations. The first need is readily supplied by solar power much of the time in some places and the second application commercially is probably not far off."
An outline of the responsibilities and research of the renewableenergy source 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 energy sources.
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 energy source; 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 renewableenergy sources 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 renewableenergy 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 renewableenergy 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 renewableenergy sources 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 renewableenergy sources 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 provides an overview of what energy means to humanity. The paper explores the problems associated with non-renewableenergy sources. This is followed by an examination of some of the more promising alternative energy sources being investigated and used today. A summary of the research is provided in the conclusion.
Contents:
Introduction
Review and Discussion
Problems Associated with Non-renewableEnergy Sources
Alternative RenewableEnergy Sources
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 analyzes hydropower which is a form of energy obtained from flowing water. Hydropower has been in existence for over 2000 years when the Greek first powered a clock using water around 250 BC. The writer of this paper focuses on Hydro-Quebec, the largest source of hydropower in Quebec and argues that this renewableenergy source is an environmentally-hazardous option.
From the Paper "Furthermore, Hydro-Quebec has also been active in diverse areas of the world, forming partnerships with US power plants and investing in hydropower efforts in Senegal and Vietnam. Although the company's promotional literature claims that Hydro-Quebec is committed to environment-friendly processes, the fact that the potential damage of hydropower is not yet known threatens the credibility of Hydro-Quebec's claim. Indeed, although such organizations as Greenpeace Canada prefer the use of hydropower, as provided by Hydro-Quebec and similar firms across Canada."
Abstract An examination of the possible effects of moving from conventional energy sources to alternative or renewableenergy sources. The author argues that this transformation could lead to economic destruction. A look at how this may effect society.
From the Paper "During the second week of the George W. Bush Presidency the new administration turned their focus to the emerging concern for a new national energy policy. In the Administration's proposal three principles for a sound national energy policy were discussed: First, to create a long-term and comprehensive strategy; second, to promote environmentally friendly and energy supply increasing technology; and third, to raise the standard of living and national security for all Americans. These principles are a summation of the culmination of the fluctuating national energy polices of the past fifty years. The Bush National Energy Policy Proposal developed a new energy policy based on conventional energy policies with an understanding of the need for a movement towards new alternative policies. At the same time, the proposal takes into consideration the need for a balance between different types of energy fuels and the potentially negative social, economic, and political impact of a hasty move towards a complete reliance on alternative energy sources."
Abstract This paper discusses how the use of solar power could free us from hazardous gases emitted by fossil fuel combustion. It looks at how photovoltaic technology takes the energy of the sun and directly converts it into electricity and how PV's are found in navigational buoys, calculators, yard lights, watches, electric fencing, streetlights, and irrigation pumps. The paper contends that because energy from the sun is free and readily available unlike fossil fuels, we can set up an affordable system that will provide free electricity for our basic needs at an initial cost comparable to alternative forms of energy.
From the Paper "A solar-thermal system collects the sun's energy and uses it to heat liquids. The heated liquid can be used to generate steam, which can then be used to turn turbines for electrical power. The steam can also be used for heat. In California, approximately 350 megawatts of power are produced by solar-thermal plants in the Mojave Desert. A well designed solar-thermal system in a home can reduce the cost of energy by as much as 85 percent and pay for itself in approximtely five years. Solar-thermal power releases no pollution and creates no waste, however in order for this system to operate, a lot of sunlight is required. "
Abstract This paper examines how, although the development of wind energy is increasing at about 40% annually with supporting legislation in several major countries, there are two main questions to be answered---cost and the amount of land needed. The author points out that almost every region of the U.S. has some areas of good wind energy and states, lying on the Great Plains from Texas to North Dakota, have a huge wind electricity-generating potential, which far exceeds its current electricity consumption. The paper points out that environmentalists have found that wind energy can create problems of noise, land erosion, visual clutter and the killing of birds who fly into the rotating blades.
From the Paper "One needs to look into the future for the real impact that wind energy can make in the U.S. There are models already in place which give some indication, up to the year 2006, what might develop in these next years. It would add some 10,000 MW of new wind energy generating capacity. There would be a regular schedule for installation, which was begun in 1997 with 100KW of additional availability, and culminating by the year 2006 in the addition of 2000 MW annually. There is a reason for accelerating installation year by year. First, while it will take time to organize installation activity, they cannot be negotiated and erected overnight. It will also require a stepped-up production, whether in the U.S. or overseas (Denmark, as was mentioned earlier, is not the major manufacturer and distributor of wind-energy turbines.)."
Abstract In this article, the writer notes that it seems as though the US is falling deeper and deeper into a global energy crisis. The writer discusses that several possible energy alternatives exist, though additional funding is still required for the research and development of such sources of clean, renewableenergy. The writer argues that, due to America's rising demands for energy, and the negative impact this demand for energy has on the environment, the United States federal government should substantially increase alternative energy incentives. The writer notes that such initiatives in changing our way of life take a substantial amount of time and resources; however, the benefits of renewableenergy are incredible. Through the utilization of clean, renewableenergy, the negative effects of global climate change will be reduced. The writer concludes that in an effort to preserve the healthy and well-being of the population in the future, additional funding toward the use of alternative sources of energy must be initiated.
From the Paper "This movement simply urges automobile manufacturers to improve fuel efficiency by the year 2020, while ignoring the possible crisis of a petroleum shortage. The federal government must become aware of the limited time to take action in an increasingly dominant issue, and introduce new strategies of energy production and conservation.
"Among the nationwide demand for energy, automobiles top the list, and are of great concern. Carbon emissions, produced in a large part due to the millions of cars on the road, forms the basis of the issue knows as global warming. To many, is seems evident that climate change greatly threatens the Earth's future well-being if changes are not made."
Abstract This paper looks at biofuel which is gas or liquid fuel made from plant material. In particular, it looks at how biofuels are a new way to tackle the problem of renewableenergy. The paper explores ways of generating biofuels, their applications in the real world and looks at new ways in which biofuels are being utilised by the world to combat and try to reduce the reliance on fossil fuels.
From the Paper "The process of biomass gasification is distinctly different form that of biogas production. Gasification is the process by which solid biomass materials are broken down using heat to produce a combustible gas, commonly known as producer gas. Common feedstocks for combustion include wood and charcoal. A biomass gasification plant consists of a reactor, into which the solid biomass fuel is fed (ITDG, 2004). The supply of air to the fuel is carefully controlled; this allows only partial combustion of the fuel to take place. During the process gases are released, these gasses are then collected and can then be used as a fuel gas (Quaak, Knoef, Stassen, 1999). Several combustible gases are given off - hydrogen, carbon monoxide and methane - as well as carbon dioxide and nitrogen. There are two types of reactor for this process; the fluidised bed reactor, which is used with large-scale gasification system, and the fixed bed reactor, which is used for small-scale producer gas systems (Stassen, 1995). "
Abstract This paper argues that energy conservation is not something that can be easily overlooked because lack of efficiency in the utilization of energy is costing the US dearly. The paper first explains what is
meant by energy efficiency and then goes on to discuss the advantages of using renewable sources of energy. The paper concludes that we have to become more efficient and economical when it comes to energy and at the same time, we need to become actively involved in adopting greener sources of energy.
From the Paper "Solar energy that causes less pollution than coal-based energy is not used as often as we should because it cannot be created with as much ease as the latter source. In order to translate solar power into electricity, greater power generation prowess is to be utilized. This is what has led to decreased use of renewable sources. Everywhere we see, the energy that we are consuming is coming from sources other than sun and wind. Interestingly while rapidly vanishing reservoirs of energy are easier to produce, they cannot be replenished with ease and the exact opposite is true for renewable sources.".
A discussion on whether countries participating in the World Summit for Sustainable Development should be allowed to implement strategies that do not impact the environment.
Abstract This paper looks at how modern energy services are not available to 2.5 billion humans. Access to energy service aids economically by permitting longer hours for income generating activities, increasing job opportunities by allowing alternate uses of energy and decreases dependence on developed countries. While the writer of this paper agrees that availability of energy will ultimately contribute to a nation's comparative advantage, he argues that if access were provided in the form of fossil fuels, this would promote rapid global warming and amplified air pollution. A large number of controversial opinions related to global warming, pollution and the need for renewableenergy sources are mentioned in this paper.
From the Paper "From August 26 to September 4, 2002, representatives from 190 nations including 104 Heads of State and Government, 700 companies including 50 CEOs, 9,000 delegates, 8,000 NGOs and 4,000 members of the press attended the World Summit on Sustainable Development , which took place outside of Johannesburg, South Africa. The last time leaders of the world met to address such issues, was 10 years ago in Rio de Janeiro. Although participants of the Rio conference had good intentions, not much has been done since that time to stabilize or reduce concerns."
Abstract This paper traces the history of commercial and domestic energy use. It covers the conversion methods necessary to obtain electricity, the infrastructure required for the production, transfer and distribution of power, the generation and distribution of electricity in the U.S., the different methods available to generate electricity and the purpose and the effect of the deregulation of the power industry in the U.S.
History of Electricity Electricity Generation and Distribution in the U.S.
Methods of Electricity Generation
Conclusion
From the Paper "Electricity is a secondary source of energy. It is obtained by converting primary sources of energy like coal, natural gas, oil (examples of potential energy); hydraulic and wind sources (kinetic energy); or nuclear energy into electrical energy. Electricity generators covert energy from primary energy sources to forms of secondary (electric) energy. Although generating electricity was easy, the ability to transport it over long distances proved difficult. George Westinghouse developed the transformer, which allowed power to be transmitted efficiently across long distances. A transformer changes electricity from low voltage to high voltage. Electricity can be transported over long distances more efficiently at a high voltage. "
This paper examines the resulting effects due to the recent population explosion which include: Hunger, depletion of fossil fuels, pollution and global warming, as well as the various strategies available to halt these same effects.
Abstract The writer of this paper explores the negative effects and consequences due to the recent population explosion which include: Overcrowding, hunger, pollution, deforestation, global warming, crime and the loss of nature's bio diversity. One of the biggest obstacles, due to the increase in the population, is the depletion of the world's fossil fuel resources. The writer stresses the need for stricter environmental guidelines as well as birth rate control regulations. This paper defines the earth's depleting fossil fuel as a broad term for three sources of energy: Petroleum, natural gas and coal. All three were formed millions of years ago during the age of dinosaurs, hence the name fossil fuels. The energy comes from decomposed plant and animal matter. Once these fuels are depleted they cannot be renewed. This paper examines the benefits to the environment in utilizing renewableenergy as an alternative to the earth's dwindling fossil fuel reserves. The paper also details various environmentally sound strategies that would aid in preserving the earth's remaining resources.
From the Paper "Fossil fuel is a broad term for three sources of energy: petroleum, natural gas, and coal. All three were formed millions of years ago during the age of dinosaurs-hence the name fossil fuels. The energy comes from decomposed plant and animal matter. Energy Quest, a major educational service on the World Wide Web describes the origin of fossil fuels: When plants and dinosaurs and other ancient creatures died, they decomposed and became buried, layer upon layer under the ground. It took millions of years to form these layers into a hard, black colored rock-like substance called coal; a thick liquid called oil or petroleum, and natural gas. Petroleum and natural gas are extracted from deep deposits below the Earth's surface."
