Hobbies And Interests
Solar Energy Pitfalls
Solar energy efficiency is currently limited by our technology and is very expensive, twice as much per unit of energy as traditionally produced energy. Solar operations are limited by the number of daylight hours, making it less productive than sources that can be harnessed continuously. There are serious environmental concerns as well. Many of the key components are manufactured using highly toxic chemicals, such as photovoltaic cells which require arsenic and cadmium. Furthermore, solar farms require one square kilometer for every 20 to 60 megawatts of power they produce.
Biomass Energy Pitfalls
Biomass energies, such as ethanol and biodiesel, have serious cons as well. These highly touted fuel alternatives yield only slightly more energy than is required to produce them, rendering them inefficient. Ethanol (E85) can only be used in flex-fuel vehicles and has a lower energy content than traditional fuels, meaning fewer miles per gallon. Furthermore, ethanol is primarily produced from corn, which raises concerns over competition for food resources. Biodiesels do not fare much better. In many cases, its use fails to fall under the warranty of auto makers. Biodiesel produces lower fuel efficiency, less power and more nitrogen oxide emissions than traditional diesel fuel. Finally, there are concerns over pure biodiesel's impact on engine life and its suitability for cold temperatures.
Wind Energy Pitfalls
Among alternative energy options, wind energy is the least problematic. However, this does not mean it is without concerns. The best locations for sustained, high winds are typically on ridgelines and in wilderness areas. This leads to concerns over the towers being eye-sores, the need to clear-cut forested areas, roads being constructed in wildlife areas, reduced property values and the safety threat posed by the spinning blades to birds, such as golden eagles and red-tailed hawks.
Geothermal Energy Pitfalls
The first problem with geothermal energy is its geographical limitations. Currently, only California, Hawaii, Nevada and Utah have operating plants. Resource availability is usually limited to areas far from population centers, reducing efficiency and increasing environmental impacts. There are also major concerns over air and water pollution created by the plants themselves, as tapping into geothermal pockets releases a large number of potentially hazardous gases and minerals. Additionally, these plants require large amounts of water, raising concerns about competition over water resources.
Hydro Energy Pitfalls
While the use of water to generate electricity is one of the least expensive forms of alternative energy and provides half of all our country's alternative energy power, it has some major problems. It is geographically limited to areas around suitable rivers and has a large, negative impact on ecosystems. It is doubtful if any large dam projects will ever be attempted in the U.S. again because of staunch environmental opposition.