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Shale Gas: Alternative Energy’s Double-Edged Sword

admin — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0000

Just as shale gas might be one of the best hopes humanity has for an alternative energy source it can also prove to be disastrous if not properly handled – or respected. However, in order for one to truly grasp the true pros and cons of shale gas, one must first understand what it is and how it is gathered. In short, shale gas is a natural gas gathered through hydraulic fractured shale rock.

Shale gas, when used as an energy source, has about half the carbon emissions that are produced by coal and is in ample supply. It is currently estimated that 1,000 trillion cubic feet of usable shale gas can be found in our own backyard. If we were to switch over to shale gas, we would have enough to supply our needs for about 50 years. Now, for the cons, even though shale produces a comparatively small amount of carbon emissions, it is still much too much for the environment. And, unfortunately, research into better methods of refinement are slow since it already costs quite a bit with the current method.

Until a more streamlined method of retrieving and refining shale gas can be achieved, those seeking out green alternatives would have better luck going through places like newyorkenergyrates.com.

History of Renewable and Alternative Energy

admin — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Prior to the discovery of fossil fuels, humanity’s only sources of energy were natural, or what we like to refer to as “renewable” or alternative energy. Before we were heating our homes with electricity, we were using light from the sun. Our predecessors learned to use the wind, sun, and water to create energy and new technologies for themselves. Evidence of solar power being used in previous centuries can be seen in the architecture of the Parthenon. The Egyptians invented the sail as early as 3200 BC to use the wind as energy to propel ships, and not soon after, the Chinese invented the wind mill. But it wasn’t just wind and the sun, hydroelectricity was also being used very early on in our history. During the classical period, the Greeks employed wheels being turned by water to grind wheat into flour. Coal was introduced as an alternative to wood as early as the medieval ages, and in 1917 Alexander Graham Bell proposed we use alcohol instead of fossil fuels. During the 1970′s, the United States experienced its first energy crisis. This prompted Americans to search for renewable and alternative energy sources on a more widespread basis, despite previous attempts in history.

The Basics of Geothermal Energy Sources

admin — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Geothermal energy is a very simple idea. Deep below the crust and upper mantle of the Earth temperatures are incredibly high. Thermal mapping can show where to find accessible hot spots below the surface. These hot spots can be utilized to provide energy in the form of heat transference.

One way to envision this concept is by thinking of a volcano or a geyser. The heat produced above the Earths surface by the energy of a volcano or geyser is intense. This energy source is easily seen. By placing piping near these sources water or steam can be captured.Never heard of this before? Get up to speed here. The water or steam can than be used as heat or turned into electricity. Imagine the possible energy available through this process if energy stored below the surface can be captured and brought up.

Several countries have begun using Geothermal Energy. Italy began its program in 1904 with enough energy to light 5 lamps. Many environmental agencies recommend utilizing this type of power. Programs and incentives help defer the initial costs allowing countries such as the United States to increase its use of Geothermal energy sources. According to the Earthy Policy Institute the United States has more than 120 new projects underway.

The Basics of Wind Energy Sources

www.alterenergyconvention.com — Sun, 17 Jul 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Wind energy has attracted a lot of attention recently because it is an unlimited natural resource. Since the wind is almost always blowing somewhere, harvesting electricity with this method will always be around. However, while wind energy has a lot of positives, it also has some negatives as well.
Wind energy is problematic because it does not provide a consistent source of electricity. This can make it difficult to integrate with the electrical grid because its hard to predict how much energy will be produced from it on any given day. Want more? Click here. This makes it hard for the current nuclear and coal burning plants to predict how much energy they will need to produce.
Wind energy has the advantage of being able to be used in remote locations where the electrical grid does not reach. When used in combination with solar energy it can provide enough energy for the typical family household to live off of. Wind energy can also be used during any weather, as opposed to the sun that solar panels need to power themselves.
While wind energy does have some kinks that need to be worked out, it is a form of renewable energy that holds much potential.

The Basics of Solar Energy Sources

admin — Sat, 16 Jul 2011 00:00:00 +0000

The basics of solar energy sources come from the sun’s rays. Solar energy is a great alternative of renewable energy compared to the fossils fuels we currently use for heating and electricity.

There are two ways that solar energy is transformed into electricity. The first way is with solar cells that are connected together into solar panels this process is called Photovoltaic. The second way solar energy is transformed into energy is with a “Solar Thermal-Electric Power Plant.”

Solar energy can be transformed into electricity providing power to run lights and other electrical items. However a con for converting over to solar power can be expensive but once installed energy bills drop rapidly. Another pro to converting over to solar energy is any surplus energy that is not used can be sold to a utility company which brings in an extra income.

Solar energy is also being used to heat water that is used in businesses and homes . This energy is also used to heat green houses, homes, and business providing an environmentally friendly alternative resource. Solar energy is reliable, quit and once installed requires little maintenance. The pros of solar energy outweigh the cons all with positive benefits.