Something to Consider...a Visual

Part of the reason that some nations, namely the United States, cannot accept renewable energy as a possibility is because the idea of solar panels is abstract. Solar panels fitted to houses, cars, or corn fields seem too futuristic.

Take these images into consideration.






Images from msnbcmedia, rvtravel.com, secmol.org, and ccicenter.org

Collaboration Is Crucial

Recently, the Eindhoven University of Technology in the Netherlands and the Fraunhofer Institute broke the world record in efficiency for solar cells. The new technology is being presented today at the solar energy conference in San Diego.

The new technology spells huge potential for a variety of reasons. First of all, the technology is ultra-thin. Therefore it is versatile and practical for energy production. Second, the efficiency of the new technology is relatively inexpensive, making the solar cells a desirable option for everyday use. Third of all, and certainly not least, developing countries can benefit from the solar cells because of their easy construction.

The collaboration between two European nation's institutions is inspiring, and demonstrates the primary reason that Europe is making the advances in renewable energy. For decades now, the Europe's place in the renewable energy world has been defined by cooperative effort.

In addition, the major advances in renewable energy technology made by European nations hold implications for developing nations. Quite literally, Europe is the global leader in the field.


Information obtained from Science Daily

For further information, visit the article here

The United States, the Laggard

In 1997, negotiations between the UK and the United States regarding greenhouse gas emissions helps explain why Europe views the United States as "the Laggard."

Over a decade ago, the United States and the UK agreed on the fact that significant reduction of greenhouse gases is completely possible. The nations even agreed that energy-efficient technologies would bring competitive energy markets, a healthier environment, and job opportunities.

Yet today, the United States has not reduced its green house gas emissions, continues to gobble up oil, and has not kept up with Europe's advances in alternative energy. Why?

Because the United States does not believe it can kick the oil habit and move on to a healthier energy system. Even in 1997, the United States felt this way, which shows the serious lack of dedication, and the appropriateness of being considered lagging.

Maybe it's not the United States' fault it can't be as bold as Europe. George Bush claims that significant adoption of alternative energies would damage the economy too severely, and put too much strain on a variety of different industries.

The question is, is the United States too addicted to oil? or is the nation too scared to move forward?

Motivations

The first question that has to be considered in analyzing the alternative energy situations of the United States, Asia, and Europe is...

 "What are the motivations of nations to develop alternative energy?" 

I've come to realize that the United States and China have somewhat different motivations to develop alternative energy. While both agree that finding affordable, clean, and safe methods are vital to countering a growing energy crisis, the United States expresses much concern over oil consumption, while China sees global warming as a primary issue. 

People in the United States are becoming more and more aware that dependency on foreign oil is dangerous to the stability of our economy. We are at the mercy of foreign leaders and their regulations of oil prices. 

While China is experiencing an economic boom and a growing consumption of oil, the Chinese see their growing outputs of carbon dioxide threatening to the environment. In this case, China's economic success has created an energy problem because a new source of energy is needed to prevent astounding amounts of carbon dioxide emissions.