Global aspects of sunlight as a major energy source

To achieve and sustain a decent livable world for all is a central goal for human society. While an abundant supply of energy is not in itself a determinant of such a world, it is nevertheless essential. A careful inquiry suggests that sunlight could eventually be the primary and even exclusive source of heat, electricity and synthetic fuels for the entire world, continuously and eternally on a scale (upwards of 100 TW) generally regarded possible only with fusion or with fission via the fast breeder. This could be achieved through a global network of solar conversion facilities coupled with appropriate energy transport and storage systems, and appears to be possible within acceptable constraints on energy payback time, materials and water resources, capital investment, and available suitable land.