Advantages and Disadvantages of Alternative Energy
The conventional sources of energy, especially coal and oil are not only causing an irreparable damage to the environment but are also getting very expensive. Alternative energy offers a solution for the rising demand for energy but it is also posing a number of challenges.
Advantages of Alternative Energy
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Environmental benefits. Low or zero carbon emission is without a doubt the main advantage of alternative energy over fossil fuels. Solar and wind power virtually produce zero carbon emissions, while wood is providing a sustainable, environmentally friendly and inexpensive energy for heating, of course under condition that the firewood is sourced in sustainably managed forests and burned in efficient wood burning stoves.
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Increased energy security. Fossil fuels are unequally distributed and make the global economy dependent on a few exporting countries. Utilisation of alternative energy thus significantly reduces dependence from the international energy supplies which in turn increases energy security by providing a stable and cost-effective energy supply.
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Sustainability. Unlike the traditional types of energy which are non-renewable, alternative forms of energy are renewable which means that they offer sustainable and stable energy supply in the long term. The Sun will not stop shining, the wind will not stop blowing, trees that are cut down for wood can easily be replaced, etc..
Disadvantages of Alternative Energy
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High cost. Unfortunately, the technologies that utilise alternative sources of energy remain relatively expensive. This of course has a major influence on the prices of energy which in turn causes concerns about adverse economic effects. A large segment of industry depends heavily on cheap energy in order to be able to keep up with the fierce global competition.
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Low efficiency. Alternative energy technologies are relatively new in offices and are not particularly efficient. This poses a problem with feasibility because the investment may not return, even in the long term. As a result, the interest of private investors for green technologies remains relatively low, while the Government can finance only a certain amount investments at a time.
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Issues with the stability of the system. The energy sector is not only seeking for alternative solutions to lower carbon dioxide emissions but to meet the rising demand for energy as well. In order for the energy supply system to remain stable, it is crucial for the supply to meet the demand. And with current technologies available, alternative types of energy – especially the most desirable ones such as solar energy – are unable to produce enough energy to meet the demand.