Are we simply jumping from one problem to another? Is renewable energy the solution to the energy challenge? How sustainable are renewables? Think about it.
The New Scientist cites three examples of "unsustainable sustainable power systems" in the renewable offerings: Multiple-junction PV cells, which have promising performance in so far as efficiency goes, but use the relatively rare metal Indium; Hydrogen fuel cells, which use the very scarce metal Platinum as a catalyst ; Bio-fuels, which make use of large areas of scarce arable land.
All renewable energy systems, except the hydro power to some extent, make use of materials which are limited in supply. To that extent they all are unsustainable. Building all those turbines and panels will also consume energy before they start delivering. But, still their negative impact is lesser than that of fossil fuels.
As we look for diverse energy resources, every system has its use during the transition. But the question is, where to cry halt?
Is it a better choice to check consumption and use less energy, instead of looking for new energy sources? Is there a limit to energy supply, like the limit to growth now being talked about?
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