The natural reserve of energy in form of coal, petroleum and other resources are limited. Most probably, the entire stock that remains – as of today – will last a century or so. On the other hand, human population is growing at an exponential pace. This means, overall energy consumption of the society will increase by several folds in the inevitable future. At this backdrop, the concept of sustainable energy has evolved. Now the query that automatically turns up, what is sustainable energy?

Sustainable Energy

Sustainable provision of energy sources that meets the requirement of the contemporary times and simultaneously, ensures ample reserve for the future generations is the basic concept of the sustainable energy policy. Technology is inherently linked to the implementation of this concept. Various avenues of technology that contribute to the successful implementation of the concept are, as follows.

i. Solar energy

ii. Wind energy

iii. Tidal and wave energy

iv. Hydroelectricity and

v. Geothermal energy, etc.

Sustainable energy – however – has been found to pollute the environment to some extent, although, that is well within the permissible limit. This energy is composed of minute quantity of carbon and hence, it is considered sustainable, as it does not contribute to formation of carbon dixoide in the atmosphere.

Commercialization of renewable energy

Technologies involved with renewable energy can be broadly classified under three chronological categories, which are as follows.

a. At the onset of the industrial revolution, which occurred more than two centuries ago, geothermal heat, biomass combustion and hydropower were the primary sources of energy that were tapped. In fact, a few of these methods mentioned, are still in use although, in limited capability.

b. In the second phase of this development, the energy sources that made their way into prominence included, solar heating, wind power in form of windmills, solar photovoltaic cells and modern forms of bio energy.

c. The third phase of this process is currently undergoing intense research and development. It includes procedures like, advanced biomass application, solar thermal power, bio refinery technologies and ocenic energy, etc. Even nano technology is a prominent part of it.

The first and the second generations of this scientific approach have already been introduced to the market. Back in 2008, an in-depth cost benefit analysis was carried out on the sustainable energy sources. According to this report, generation of wind power, battery electric vehicles (BEV) and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (HFCV) emerged as the most efficient applications of the theory. The phases of renewable energy development redefined both the scope and the job profile of an electrical contractor Brisbane.

On the other hand, Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFLs) have become prominent in the electrical consumer market. Two of its amazing advantages are, as follows.

i. Lower power consumption, almost 1/3 and

ii. Longer durability, with respect to that of conventional incandescent

The CFLs are an excellent example of energy efficient lighting. This category of lighting products is exceptionally popular across the consumer segment. In fact, CFLs contribute to the strengthening of the factor of sustainable energy.