Global Energy Alternatives for Automobiles

[240D.Bill]

Continuation from "Future of old Diesels?" in the child forum 'Diesel Discussion' for a great prerequisite or reference to the discussion. I hope the participants follow from that thread. There's some great information and discussion taking place with regard to Bio, EVs, Solar, Fossil, Nuclear, et al...

In response to and follow over from the referenced thread I'd like to weigh in, challenge any misinformation I have, and gain insight from the collective body of knowledge within.

Firstly, I don't believe a viable solution can be supported that undermines or inadequately factors the basic laws of thermodynamics. My own convictions are grounded in the physical and practical application within those parameters. IMHO, a viable solution must use those laws in determining a solution and as a guiding principle to support the long term(250+ years).

Personally, I suggest a handicap. Let's assume a global epidemic or other large scale 'natural disaster' to curb present demand and give us a head start. ;-) Just kidding... although it would help in addressing a seemingly impossible challenge. Sidebar Thread!

SOLAR
From the research I've collected it's my understanding that we currently do not have the infrastructure or expertise to safely handle and dispose of the heavy metals used in both production and disposal of PV arrays. It is possible to develop and support that requirement but little has been done to address it thus far. Consider also the harvesting, production, disposal/recycling hurdles coupled with that solution and I presume there is a considerable and perhaps less viable solution to meeting demands at present. There's much work to be done but I cannot imagine the development will be abandoned despite any justifiable factors if any, to do so. It's popular and on the surface appears to have a bright future... forgive the pun.

If and only if the infrastructure can safely address the waste generated, I believe solar energy is promising. Though I'm well acquainted with the electrical equations associated with energy management and production with electro-mechanical, wind, solar, geothermal, etc., I'm not a mathematician. I cannot adequately address or provide all the relevant factors/variables/figures to support viability of a Global Solar solution. However, there's no denying the potential energy as our signal most powerful and abundant source of energy. Any effort to harness, store, and develop that potential cannot be ignored. If you accept the premise: The sun is our largest source of energy, it must be the most logical starting point as governed by laws of thermodynamics. The crux lays in the efficiency to which we can convert and store that source of energy. With each transition there is a significant drop in efficiency. One cannot dismiss the energy conversion stags associated with raw material collection, production, and other aforementioned factors. Perhaps there is someone here that can address those obstacles.

Bio-Fuel

I love the idea and practical application of using it in my Diesels. Terrestrial and acquatic plants are primary solar energy consumers that harness, store, and provide a more importantly produce a surplus of energy to support the energy equation. Metaphorically speaking, it must logically be considered a viable source to spin our gold. Terrestrial sources are a huge limiting factor. We. We need surface area and therefore must shift infrastructure to harvest these tiny but collectively massive storage battery aka. phytoplankton and algae.

Nuclear Energy

Let's face facts:
1. Atomic fusion is arguably the least popular alternative
2. Atomic fusion is presently the most efficient and viable alternative that we have both the expertise and infrastructure to meet present demand.
3. Shortcomings, accidents, and hurdles incurred with early development have been significantly contained and effectively mitigated.
4. Swaying public opinion and improving the undeserved notoriety of atomic energy is going to be a long uphill battle.