Renewable energy resources have become a priority around the world as we grapple with the cost and limited supply of fossil fuels, not to mention the effect on the environment resulting from their use. How do we know which energy source is appropriate to invest in, with both our time and money? Do we have to give up our current standard of living if we switch to an alternative energy source?
Go to Natural Resources Canada’s energy website (www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy/home). Review this main page and follow links on energy sources and renewable energy. Take note of the tables that indicate what energy sources are used where in Canada.
Evaluate the website and work with the information to answer the following questions:
Is this a reliable information source? Does it have a clear and transparent agenda?
Who runs this website? Do this organization’s credentials make it reliable/unreliable? Explain.
Who are the authors? What are their credentials? Do they have the scientific background and expertise to lend credibility to the website?
In your own words, briefly summarize what you believe are the most important pros and cons of alternative energy resources based on your readings. Do any of these also apply to traditional fossil fuels? Would you be willing to invest your money in research and development of alternative energy sources? Why or why not?
What fuel provides most of the energy in your region? Were you aware of this, or are you surprised?
How does your community differ from the nation in terms of both fuel sources and emissions?
Based on what you know about the weather and geography in your area, what types of alternative renewable fuel sources would you recommend? If you need help with local weather statistics, you can do an Internet search for your region.