The two alternatives of fossil fuels that are currently available for use include wind and solar energy. The wind energy occurs when the windmill blades are exposed to the forces of the wind hence causing the turbines to rotate leading to the conversion of kinetic energy to mechanical energy. The mechanical energy powers a generator leading to electricity. Solar energy is achieved through the photovoltaic panels which convert sunlight energy into electrical energy usable at homes.
It is vital to note that certain barriers keep the wind and solar energy from replacing the likes of oil, coal, and natural gas as the primary sources of energy. With regards to the wind energy, the wind is inconsistent, unpredictable, and sometimes unsteady hence making it an unreliable source of energy ( Twidell & Weir, 2015). It is also an expensive means of energy and requires government subsidies to remain competitive. On the other hand, solar energy also suffers from the same problems of unreliability due to the fact that it is weather dependent. Despite the fact that it can be tapped during rainy and cloudy days, its efficiency markedly reduces. It is also vital to note that this form of energy cannot be collected at night (‘’Renewable Energy, Nuclear Power, and Energy Efficiency’’)
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The government plays an important role in ensuring that there is a smooth transition to the renewable sources of energy in the post-carbon world. Some of the governmental interventions include funding research that will ensure such sources of energy are understood better and incorporated to replace the carbon-based energy sources. The government can also invest in the renewable sources of energy through direct grants, investments, loans, and tax incentives. All these are geared towards improving the economy of the initial investment and supporting the renewable technologies. The government can also assist the private sectors in their bid to invest in the renewable sources of energy by financing the gaps (UNEP, 2012)
References
Renewable Energy, Nuclear Power, and Energy Efficiency, Chapter 8 https://content.ashford.edu/books/AUSCI207.14.2/sections/ch08
Twidell, J., & Weir, T. (2015), Renewable energy resources . Routledge.
UNEP (2012) Global Trends in Renewable Energy Investment 2012 , UNEP Collaborating Centre for Climate and Sustainable Energy Finance
