From Guest Blogger Anica Oaks: Four Ways We Can Move Our Energy Systems Away from Coal Dependency

The use of coal, as an energy source, not only dominates the world’s industrial culture, but it is also among the most detrimental to the environment. It is a leading cause of acid rain and creates more than 300,000 tons of waste to be disposed of. With the world racing toward a more sustainable future, finding a dependable, renewable source of energy is imperative.

Powdered Metal

Until recently, the problem with replacing fossil fuels has been finding an energy source that produces an equivalent supply of power. Finely ground iron is believed to have greater energy density than coal and gasoline but without any carbon emissions. Scientists have already demonstrated its ability to carry its own flame, and are expecting it to provide a cheaper, recyclable alternative.

Nuclear Fusion

Nuclear fusion replicates energy similar to that of the sun. The technology, although not fully implemented in the mainstream world, has been successfully proven to power a steam turbine. The technology uses atomic power to drive to clusters of protons and neutrons (called atomic nuclei) together. As of to 2013, the fusion has produced significant energy, and by 2022, it is expected to have an active role in the industrial world.

Solar Power

Solar power has seen a boost in funding, an indication that companies are showing more interest in its development. This change in direction can be attributed, in part, to a drop the in cost of solar power generation. Not to mention that new technology is improving the efficiency and scalability of solar systems.

The advantage solar has over coal is the fact that it is powered by an infinite source of energy. Although coal is known to generate greater levels of electricity, continued demand for stronger solar technology could lead to advancements in the near future with the help of scientists and community designers with a master in civil engineering.

Geothermal Energy

Geothermal energy is generated by drawing water from reservoirs and funneling it into power plants, where it is used to run turbines. Currently, the United States is the world’s largest producer of geothermal energy, having invested billions of dollars into the program. Although it has been around since the early part of the 20th century, it wasn’t until recently that the world began to regard it as a reliable energy source.

Recently, investments in coal and oil companies have plummeted, while many alternative energy producers are seeing a rise in stocks. Even companies, like Southern Company, that made their fortune on oil and gas are shifting toward renewable energy, evidence that zero-emissions fuel is paving the way toward a cleaner world.