A Future Of Solar Energy - 3797 Words

A Future in Solar Energy The amount of energy used by the United States and the entirety of the world is predicted to drastically increase over the next few years. In 2001 the worldwide average energy consumption rate was approximately 13.5 TW (terawatt), but it is predicted that by 2100 that rate could triple to about 43 TW. In order to account for this greater need it becomes necessary to take action, as current production levels cannot meet the projected increase in energy consumption. There are many different approaches that could be taken so as to adjust for these forecasted levels. The following pages will consider the pros and cons to the following question: Should the United States Department of Energy promote a comprehensive†¦show more content†¦Therefore, solar energy has the capability to solve the energy shortage problems that could develop in the future. If solar energy is to become a cost effective primary energy source though, then batteries and fuels cells mu st become less expensive and more efficient. In order to obtain these goals research must be done to develop our current technologies. Until solar energy becomes more cost effective, cheaper means of obtaining energy will continue to be utilized even though resources may be depleting and the detrimental effects to our planet may be evident. Currently the capture and storage capabilities for solar energy are not efficient and cost effective enough to make solar energy a viable option to be a primary source of energy for the United States or the rest of the world. At right is a depiction of a fuel cell and an example of a solar fuel cell (Lewis and Nocera). As seen in the diagram, in a fuel cell hydrogen and oxygen are combined so as to create a flow of electrons and protons across the membrane. This produces electrical energy. On the other hand the solar fuel cell is driven by light and causes the electrons and protons to flow in the opposite direction. When coupling the electrons an d protons to the catalysts it becomes possible to break the bonds in water. As