This article focuses on the need to develop alternatives to fossil fuels for present-day and future energy systems. The direction of energy research ought to be toward material science that can extend the life and lower the cost of renewable energy systems, rather than toward highly theoretical analyses that have over-the-horizon payoffs. Additionally, the planning for a smooth transition from fossil based to sustainable energy must include a side-by-side analysis of the economics as well as the energy return on energy investment (EROI) of each potential system. The EROI analysis would ensure the long-term viability of the technology, and the commercial analysis would show how much the system will cost and, thereby, provide an estimate of the money required for the installation in the transition period. The transition from the oil- and coal-based economy to a sustainably based future is not expected to be easy; however, taking advantage of the low-hanging fruit of conservation and energy efficiency will make that transition easier and much less painful.
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May 2012
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Bang for the Buck
Energy Return on Energy Investment is a Powerful Metric for Weighing Which Energy Systems are Worth Pursuing.
Frank Kreith is professor emeritus of engineering at the University of Colorado in Boulder and an ASME Honorary Member. He served as chief scientist and ASME Legislative Fellow at the National Conference of State Legislatures from 1988 to 2001 and was senior research fellow at the Solar Energy Research Institute (now the National Renewable Energy Laboratory). Kreith is the author of more than 100 articles and books, most recently Principles of Sustainable Energy (CRC Press, 2011). ASME established an award in his name in 2005.
Mechanical Engineering. May 2012, 134(05): 26-31 (6 pages)
Published Online: May 1, 2012
Citation
Kreith, F. (May 1, 2012). "Bang for the Buck." ASME. Mechanical Engineering. May 2012; 134(05): 26–31. https://doi.org/10.1115/1.2012-MAY-1
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