The Shift To Alternate Energies Continues, Despite Shale Boom Analysis

CORE “?” PRO 3: Journalist Richard Schiffman is also in favor of a change in out electricity production. In Schiffman’s article, “Why the Shift to Alternate Energies Continues, Despite Shale Boom” he focuses on the benefits that we will begin to see as we switch from fossil fuels to forms of energy such as solar and wind. He believes that no matter the upfront costs, both economically and socially, the benefits will quickly arise and outweigh the costs. These benefits will come from lower electric bills, no longer having to depend on global oil prices, and also an overall cleaner environment. Schiffman acknowledges the greater cost of building and installing solar and wind farms but also points out that once these costs are over with, the operation and maintenance costs are far lower than that of fossil fuels. This goes especially for solar energy because of it not having any movable parts that can wear out and need replacement. This makes solar panels very practical for personal use in a household. Once the personal solar panel is installed for the home is begins generating electricity, and once it produces enough to pay for its self, it is making nearly free energy. At the end of Schiffman’s article he …show more content…
These people tend to bring up issues such as cost, technological deficiencies, and the “why change something if it works” ideal. There is no doubt that the lack of technology in this area is an issue and because of this it makes it very difficult to see alternative energy as a viable option. The only way to rid this issue is to put in place policies and funding to increase the research for technologies in this area. Though, taking these steps will not come without cost. If it is decided that there costs are worth the reward, would the boom in alternative energy technology make the switch less of a