Comparative analysis of energy resources

This paper examines the problems encountered by a growing demand for energy consumption and a dwindling reserve of conventional energy sources Development of alternative clean energy sources should be vigorously pursued in order to improve or maintain the quality of life. The search for new energy sources has indicated the need for developing approaches to evaluate feasibility and competitiveness of the alternative sources. Frequently mentioned as alternative energy sources are wind power, water power, tidal power, coal, fission energy with or without breeders, geothermal energy, ocean thermal energy conversion, low temperature solar energy, solar power through photosynthesis and solar electric: generation. Factors considered in comparing these energy sources are given. An illustration based on United States energy consumption rates and available energy resources provide revealing information about future directions in energy production.

Requirements for economic comparative models are discussed and an example is given.