Fuel sources are required for power, and until recently, so-called fossil fuels have been the main resources used to derive power for automobiles, electricity generators and a host of other facets of modern life. While these fuel sources, including oil and natural gas, have proven to be effective and efficient in converting energy into power, they aren’t always the cleanest sources of energy.
Looking for Cleaner Alternatives
In looking for clean energy alternatives, many experts have been keeping an eye on renewable resources and clean technologies like lithium-ion batteries. While these technologies have their downsides, they can produce energy to power things like vehicles without as much pollution in the form of carbon dioxide or other potentially hazardous byproducts.
Currently, solar and wind are the dominant alternative energy sources being investigated and invested in by energy producers. Wave power is also being considered as an energy alternative in various parts of the world, but the viability of this kind of energy generation is largely situational based on location.
Making the Transition
Currently, an energy transition is underway, in which energy producers are trying to balance existing technology and the need for continued use of fossil fuels with a move to cleaner alternatives. This transition is challenging because it can’t simply be done overnight, as existing infrastructure still heavily favors fossil fuels.
In addition, the initial cost of many clean energy alternatives is quite high as the technology is still new and in the process of evolving. This can make it difficult for both energy producers and consumers to embrace clean energy alternatives, slowing the transition process.
Looking to the Future
The transition to cleaner energy sources is a given for most energy producers, but how long it will take to complete is still debated. While governments are setting mandates and deadlines for various industries to hit certain targets, all kinds of issues can get in the way of meeting these obligations. Geopolitical and economic uncertainty currently cloud the energy market, and consumer sentiment needs to come around to electric and other renewable energy sources before widespread adoption can really take hold.
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