chapter 20 notes
More efficient energy use and a greater reliance on renewable sources, could reduce or even eliminate our dependence on fossil fuels and nuclear energy.
There are many opportunities to conserve energy through greater efficiences in lighting, space and water heating, insulation, better industrial motors and controls, and simply turning off appliances when not in use.
Cogeneration of heat and electricity can double the efficiency of home or business energy use.
Transportation is one of our biggest energy uses as well as a great opportunity for conservation.
Hybrid gasoline-electric vehicles have the highest efficiency rating and lowest emissions of any commercially available option.
Solar energy is one of the most useful resources at our disposal.
Remote, large-scale solar arrays, the best way to transport energy may be to use it to generate hydrogen gas that can be shipped to markets via underground pipelines.
Fuel cells are devices that use electrochemical react6ions and semipermeable membranes to generate an electrical current.
Biomass has long been used as a fuel for heat and light.
Firewood, dung, and charcoal are the main forms of biomass used in most places.
Hydropower once produced most electricity in the world, but largely been replaces by fossil fuels.
Wind power is th fastest growing energy source in the world and offers a huge potential for clean, renewable power.
Wind could easily supply all the electricity we need and free us from the economic, social, and environmental problems associated with fossil fuels and nuclear power.
Nearly everywhere, the constant temperature of the earth a few meters below the surface can provide a useful heat sink for heating or cooling.
