Using the Deserts to Produce Solar Energy
To produce mass quantities of efficient solar energy space and abundant sunshine are needed. Sunshine and space is more of a problem to some countries than others, so many assume that only countries with an extensive land mass and guaranteed good weather are worthy bases for solar power generation. But according to Greenpeace, the small and often overcast United Kingdom could meet two-thirds of its electricity needs with solar panels -- on roofs of existing buildings, negating the need to find space for solar plants.
But there is one area of the world, some are saying, which does meet solar power's two basic needs of sunshine and lots of space: The Sahara Desert. According to the United Nations Environment Report, released in 2006, an area of 640,000 square kilometers could provide the world with all of its electricity needs (the Sahara is more than 9 million square kilometers in size).
The IEA has also said that if just 4 percent of the world's deserts were covered with PV installations, the world's main energy needs would be met. Opponents to such a centralized supply of energy, however, have one key objection: it would be too easy a target for terrorists.
Cooking oil is being purified and used as jet fuel.
The US military is turning to biofuels for the future searching for ways to limit dependence on foreign oil.
Solar power is becoming a more viable option for the masses these days as companies such as Green Mountain and Google are promoting huge public service movements on the solar energy platform.
Despite the softening world economies wind energy projects have remained popular and in demand. Global wind turbine markets have weathered recent economic storms with remarkable aplomb.
Google is making a stand for the environment and backing a large green energy project.