It works where it works

There is no one-size-fits-all energy solution out there (yet).

Commerciality is important. A technical solution that is unaffordable is not a solution.

Wind works where the wind blows.

Geothermal works where there is both heat and water close to surface.

Solar works as a replacement for expensive electricity supply.

Hydro works where dams can be built close enough to population centres.

Carbon geosequestration will work where there are good reservoirs in areas with few land owner issues, close enough to power generation to be economic.

Algae based fuel solutions work where the environment is just right for the algae to grow at an economic rate.

Energy efficiency works where it reduces costs.

The costs of installation of these systems, including supporting infrastructure is changing every day, but not enough to make all of it work everywhere. 

Note: I work as a project and energy economist with companies and governments on geosequestration,wind, geothermal, hydro, wave, transmission networks, coal seam gas, coal,and more. The views expressed in this blog are solely my own and do not represent the views of any organisation that I do work for.