What environmental issues need to be considered when choosing an alternative energy source?
Answer:
mainly local environmental impact.
eg. daming a river for a hydro turbine is no loger considered environmental as it damages the local environment.
As microhydro turbines don't as they only divert part of the river a bit.
The embodied energy is also important factor when considering what alternative energy is going to used.
For example solar hot water heaters have an energy payback of about 1 year.
Solar Panels have an energy payback of about 6-8 years.
As the silicon is a rare metal when requiring to build them.
Then it would be the logical step to first use a solar hot water system before putting solar cells up on your roof.
Same with wind power you also need to consider viability of the energy source at that location.
If there is not enough wind or too much turbulence.
This can effect what energy source is considered most viable at that location.
Eg. Hawaii is about to turn it's whole electricity economy to geothermal as it is most viable as they are on a volcanoe.
everything.if there is less impact than what we do as norm now, it has to be better for us all..right now the norm is polluting the majority of the planet.
First of all, take the availability and renewability of the source into consideration. If it's both renewable and freely available, it's OK. Also consider: "Will it provide a cleaner means of energy?" or "Will it be as efficient or more efficient as those sources of energy today?"
Then, consider the pros and cons; the advantages and risks. For example, a certain alternative energy source could be more abundant, but it could be as expensive or more compared to today's energy sources.
Last but not the least, consider the cost. Can every average person afford it?
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