The Solar Economy

The global economy and the way of life it has created are based on the exploitation of fossil fuels ? coal, oil and, more recently, natural gas ? and fossil fuels will be the engine of the collapse of that economy. Without fundamental change, it has no future.

Fossil energy not only threatens massive environmental and social disruption through global warming but, at present rates of consumption, it will run out within decades, causing huge industrial dislocation. Even before then, the conflicts and imbalances it causes in the Middle East and elsewhere in the world?s economy will be frighteningly exacerbated.

The alternative exists: renewable energy from renewable sources ? above all solar. Substituting renewable for fossil resources will take a new industrial revolution, which is imperative if the worst of the damage is to be averted, and which also offers an unprecedented chance to restructure the international order, revitalize regional economies and prevent environmental devastation.

The Solar Economy, by one of the world?s most effective analysts and advocates, lays out the blueprints, showing how the political, economic and technological challenges can be met using indigenous, renewable and universally available resources, and the enormous opportunities and benefits that will flow from doing so. [From Earthscan]”