The predominant energy economy of the world is based on fossil fuels. Coal, oil, and gas form the basis of energy production and use to fuel economic growth and execution of daily activities. It is widely recognized and accepted that these resources are finite, and at some point in the future, a new energy paradigm will be needed. Current and past efforts at resource conservation are important, but will not satiate future energy needs. Alternative energy sources will play an increasing role in energy supply, however, full deployment of these energy sources and transition away from significant use of fossil energy will likely be measured in tens of decades, if not a full century. To that end, the need for sound technical resources to address exploration, production, transportation, refining, and end use of fossil energy will continue through the transition period to alternative energy. Topics of importance are not only inclusive of fossil energy technologies, but technologies that enable the deployment and application of alternative energy sources, alone or in concert with conventional energy sources, with as much use of current technology and infrastructure as possible to minimize detrimental economic impact. "Energy system integration" is not a new concept and was recognized as one of the top twenty areas (no. 7) for energy loss reduction and recovery as a means to conserve existing energy.
The potential benefits of alternative energy sources are well recognized. However, to fully realize the benefits, it is requisite to address numerous challenges. These challenges are such that the "time to full deployment" demands a sound evaluation of the transitional integration between our current dependence on conventional fossil energy and the use of alternative energy sources. A clear business opportunity exists for INL in helping to facilitate and manage the processes necessary to accomplish this transition. This effort will be focused towards the development and implementation of processing technologies necessary to address recognized barriers to the transition from conventional to alternative energy sources.
- Biomass Technology
- Geothermal Energy
- Hydropower Technology
- Wind Energy and Power Systems
- Hybrid Transportation Technologies
- Contacts:
- Bill Apel, (208) 526-1783, Send E-mail