This research discusses the world's current energy crisis. Fossil energy comprises the majority of the world's energy source;
however, these fuels pose threats to the environment and do not provide a renewable source of energy. Analysts predict that the world will run out of fossil fuels in forty to fifty years. Due to this impending crisis, experts research and attempt to determine renewable energy sources that meet the world's growing energy needs while considering the technical, environmental, financial, and social impact of these alternatives. This report summarizes four of the most developed renewable energy options that could feasibly replace fossil fuels as a source of energy, including fuel cells, solar power, wind power, and
hydroelectric power. Fuel cells use substances such as methanol and oxygen to react and provide energy; however, obtaining a clean, reliable hydrogen source and lowering the cost must precede implementation. Solar power harnesses the sun's thermal with photovoltaic cells to produce electricity; the paper focuses on concentrating solar technologies and the addition research required to employ this
alternative fuel source. Wind power uses turbines situated in a field to capture the kinetic energy of the wind; as one of the most frequently used renewable energy resources, this solution may become feasible as prices decrease. Hydropower uses flowing water through a system of turbines and generators to produce vast amounts of clean energy, but its environmental impacts are serious and widespread. All of these renewable energy sources have advantages and disadvantages when it comes to producing energy on a large scale. Some of these factors include cost, efficiency, environmental factors, and political and social factors. The report recommends an increase in research for each of these fields, and concludes that these renewable energy sources will only develop if society as a whole accepts the financial burden that accompanies them. Overall, the financial burden of renewable resources does not compare to the devastating effects that continued fossil energy usage will leave on the environment.