Originally published March 23 2005
Alternative energy not likely to disrupt economy of Middle East in near future
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Journalists say that the rise in popularity of alternative energy is not likely to derail the economies of the Middle East in the foreseeable future. Middle Eastern oil reserves are so large that non-fossil fuel energy production will remain more expensive than just pumping oil for many years to come. However, a large portion of Middle Eastern reserves are offshore, where the oil is more difficult to extract.
Clean energy sources like wind and solar power---not to mention still-unproven hydrogen technology---are gaining popularity, especially in Western Europe.
It is used in the petrochemicals industry, for heating oil and aviation fuel, and to power electricity generation.
A major shift away from fossil fuels would wreak havoc on the economies of Middle Eastern producers.
But it's more likely we're going to see a declining demand in developing countries, matched by a booming demand in China and the developing world, which will keep Earth addicted to gas and oil for the foreseeable future.
GM has slated for 2007 "strong hybrid" versions of its Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon SUVs, again based on the hybrid technology used in Allison buses, but a fuller version than it is using in the Silverado and Sierra, so they should both have more power and better fuel economy.
When technology makes other sources of power economically competitive, and when consumers demand them, voting for more fuel efficient cars, more public transport or more energy efficient products with their pocket books, then things will change.
Dickey: Few politicians think far beyond their next election campaign, and, as we've seen, no major American candidate has been willing seriously to impose the taxes and regulations that could force the public to change its wasteful consumption habits.
He plays a key role in NEWSWEEK's coverage of the war on terror and writes the weekly Shadowland column for the magazine's Web site.
All content posted on this site is commentary or opinion and is protected under Free Speech. Truth Publishing LLC takes sole responsibility for all content. Truth Publishing sells no hard products and earns no money from the recommendation of products. NaturalNews.com is presented for educational and commentary purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice from any licensed practitioner. Truth Publishing assumes no responsibility for the use or misuse of this material. For the full terms of usage of this material, visit www.NaturalNews.com/terms.shtml