“As we argue below, policy evaluation is positively served by a direct comparison of the two alternatives since it would force the debate about energy futures to move beyond answers that are constrained by the boundaries of the energy status quo.” (Byrne, Kurdgelashvili, Poponi, Barnett, 2004). The uses of coal during the Industrial Revolution and now the increasing amounts of oil used worldwide have brought us to the edge of a cliff. The overuse of oil is constantly worsening the greenhouse effect brought on by the release of toxic gases (carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, methane, nitrous oxide, etc.). Also it has forced us into a system where we are dependent on oil for almost all our goods and services. Due to the great supply, demand, and application for oil it can be sold at incredibly low prices and used for many different causes. After crude oil is processed it can be used to make almost anything ranging from gas and electricity to household and chemical goods. Its almost universal application has entrenched us in a system where we depend on oil to make, transport, and power our goods. This system has what is referred to as a status quo on energy generated by oil because it helps perpetuate the cycle of oil dependency. It’s hard to break from this system because oil has historically been such a cheap option.
As was stated before, if we continue along this path not only will we run out of oil (if we survive that long) but we will also destroy countless ecosystems which by their very nature support our existence. To break from this system we need to start diversifying our energy portfolio. Westernized society is made possible by readily available, consistent, and cheap electricity. Without it we would be individually responsible for acquiring the goods and services we use on a daily basis (food, water for consumption and bathing, transportation, shelter). If we were responsible for all of these tasks we wouldn’t have the time or ability to do the things that help the progression of society like education or work. So if we are to continue to live the life we are accustom to living we must find a long-term solution for our energy needs. If modern society is to survive there clearly needs to be a change in our global energy portfolio. With increasing carbon taxes, environmental regulations, and public concerns; alternative power sources are proving to be a viable and sustainable option for the future. One of the promising of these alternative energy sources is solar energy. There has been a lot of work done within the capturing and storage of solar energy and if these technologies continue to develop at the rate they have been there might be a very bright future for solar energy.
The Future of Solar Energy 