Tomorrow’s Energy Finding Renewable Alternatives to Supplement the Current Infrastructure Wind is one of the many resources available for producing sustainable energy. Timothy English II

Current Practices Every month the United States burns:  620 million barrels of oil.  94 million short tons of coal.  67,000 million cubic yards of natural gas. These finite resources account for more than 90% of U.S. energy production.

Research Billions of dollars are spent by oil companies on research. Most of this money is being wasted on finding more oil. Chevron, a leader in alternative energy research, invests less than 1% of their revenue ($110 million) on non-oil ventures. Most of their research is in Hydrogen Fuel Cell technology.

American Investments Clean technology is a $20 billion a year industry and growing. Production costs are dropping, while demand and shipments are increasing exponentially. Yet, U.S. companies only invested $1.5 billion last year.

Profitable Research There are ways to make money with research. Case Study: Chevron and the West Sacramento US Postal Service. Chevron installed 28,000 ft 2 of photovoltaic cells near processing facilities. The cells, producing 400 kW, save the USPS $615,000 a year This money is paid to Chevron over a set lease. Chevron makes a profit while conducting research on solar panel feasibility, and the USPS keeps the equipment. Solar cells provide 33% of this facility’s energy and serve as shaded carports for employees.

More Investment The market is ready, but it is still in its infancy. It is now up to American investors to take the initiative and make the investments necessary to spur a new era of energy production. Early investors will see the greatest returns.

A Safe Bet Renewable energy is here to stay, as the other supplies are limited. Investments into established greentech companies, such as solar cell manufacturers, will show immediate growth. Research no longer has to be just an expense, as proper planning can lead to profits and future business.

Now! Current practices are becoming more expensive; the oil is harder to find. Costs in renewable energy technology are dropping. Consumers (both industrial and residential) are being driven to alternative sources as traditional energy prices rise. Now! Current practices are becoming more expensive; the oil is harder to find. Costs in renewable energy technology are dropping. Consumers (both industrial and residential) are being driven to alternative sources as traditional energy prices rise. When?

Recap  Current energy practice is to burn away limited resources.  Research money is being wasted on squeezing more out of the wells.  American investments in tomorrow’s energy are weak.

Recap  It is time to for investors to take the initiative.  Money spent on renewable technology will show returns.  Research need not be an expense and burden!  The time to act is now. The market is strong and will continue to grow.

“The future of energy is going to be much more diversified than it is today. The world’s growing demand for energy is going to require several different sources.” -Don Paul, VP & Chief Technology Officer, Chevron