by Jan Anthony Chlapowski
Introduction
There are interesting developments in the technologies applying new sources of energy to help advanced nations “kick the habit” of their addiction to carbon based fuels. Trends in engine and hybrid vehicle design move towards some version of a “car of the future.” Crude oil supplies are slowly running towards “empty,” yet the impact of such fuels as ethanol, biofuels, liquefied natural gas or hydrogen are hardly felt. “Clean” coal and nuclear power plants have the potential to alleviate climatic changes due to man-made emissions, however they are slow in gaining acceptance in the U.S.; as are wind farms and photovoltaic cells [solar panels].(continue…)