Key+Solution+-+Energy

[|Koala talking about Alternative Energy]

Emissions from coal-fired power stations make up about half ofAustralia's carbon emissions.

__Solutions__

//Solar//

Solar power is power harnessed from the sun. The sun’s rays are absorbed by a black panel, known as a solar panel. Solar power accounts for 2% of Australia’s energy produced but with all the sunshine we have here in Australia it is a great energy solution for us to develop. Solar panels became very popular in the 1970s, but at that time the cost of solar power was high compared with the price of fossil-fuel energy costs, solar power was more expensive and accordingly this industry has not yet been developed to its full potential. With people aware of the damage caused by the carbon emissions from fossil-fueled energy sources, development of solar power will be an important part of Australia's response to the climate change challenge.

Australia could get over 90% of its energy needs from solar power. So far, there are 33 solar power stations in Australia but some of them are not operational yet. Solar energy is is a great alternative energy solution and it is one alternative Australia should develop.

//Wind// Wind power is the conversion of wind energy into a useful form, such as electricity, using wind turbines and more efficient designs are being developed. It is anticipated that sufficient wind power can be available to meet our energy needs. Wind power is a small contributor of energy in Australia - as of 2008, approximately 1% of Australia's electricity is sourced from wind power. There are 42 wind farms operating in Australia. Australia has excellent wind resources by world standards, especially on the coastline. Wind power would be a massive boost to reducing greenhouse gases and carbon emissions in Australia.

//Geosequestration// Geosequestration involves the capture and storage of CO2 underground on a long term basis. Emissions are captured from power stations, the CO2 is separated out and then pumped underground to seal it away.  The Australian Government says it will commit $500 million over the next 10 years to help develop this technology using private investment.

//Geothermal//

Geothermal energy harnessed the energy produced by "hot rocks". Engineers bore two holes down into the rocks, force water down one, which flows through cracks in the hot rocks where it is heated to above boiling, and then up the other borehole to the surface, where it turns to steam and can be used to drive a generator. A small power station is being built in South Australia as a trial.