Quote from: Hydrogen on February 17, 2023, 11:21:05 PM

Green energy is mostly solar power.

Solar panels are made from processed silicon. Which is essentially sand heated into glass. The barrier to entry for solar power may not be high. The issue behind most major nations of the world not becoming more involved in solar power likely has to do with lack of funding, skilled labor and expertise. Much of the existing technology behind patented solar based intellectual property has its origins in the united states. With production being moved to china in an effort to leverage lower labor costs.

In terms of efficiency, I think the advantage is with green energy given its potential for growth and scaling. Electric motors can reach 80%+ efficiency. While internal combustion engines are usually rated around 15% efficiency. The difference comes from fossil fuels having on average greater energy density as a fuel source.

It could be guaranteed that oil and fossil fuels would not last forever. At some point, we could be forced to abandon them or find alternatives when supply runs out. Perhaps its better to begin the transition now, rather than wait until its too late.

Of course, the future belongs to alternative energy sources and the most significant place among them is solar panels, the production of which is getting cheaper thanks to new technologies. So, scientists from the University of Rochester were able to develop a new method to increase the efficiency of the solar cell material. Silicon is usually used as the basis for solar panel development, because it is found in abundance in nature and has an excellent ability to convert sunlight into energy. However, the researchers decided to use in the development of panels a forgotten, but not lost relevance mineral - perovskite - a source of titanium, niobium and a number of other elements. It is quite famous for its crystal structure. If we use perovskite instead of silicon in solar panels, then the energy efficiency immediately triples. Probably, and this is far from the limit.

If technologies continue to improve further, then hydrocarbon energy sources can be forgotten. Of course, oil and gas can be used in various industries, up to the food industry, but not on the current huge scale. Therefore, Russia in this regard will lose its former significance and greatness.