Energy and Technology

Abstract

A review of promising new energy technologies points out their potential for avoiding both energy shortages and the complications of government rationing or tax disincentives. The need for an evolving energy policy that changes with technology developments and the availability of resources is noted. Research funds have been allocated for old technologies, such as wind power, to see if new designs and energy storage systems can make them economically viable. The author also examines fuel cells, solar energy, alcohol and hydrogen fuels, geothermal energy, and coal gasification to determine the present state of the art and to anticipate future applications. He stresses the need for the National Energy Plan to give greater emphasis and funding to long-term alternative energy technologies.