Introduction

The total amount of solar energy reaching Earth is enormous. What is the potential for harnessing this energy?

Solar water-heating and space-heating systems for buildings represent well-developed technologies. What is preventing a more widespread adoption of these forms of solar heating?

Solar energy via photovoltaic cells and solar-trough collectors is used to produce electrical power. What are the current applications of these technologies, and what is their promise for the future?

There is a great need to develop solar energy sources that can be coupled to fuel for transportation. What is the potential for fuel from solar hydrogen production?

Water, fire, and wind have provided energy for centuries. What are sustainable ways of expanding these options in the near future?

The options for energy into the twenty-first century are many. In the light of global climate change, moving in the direction of renewable energy sources seems essential. What is in the way of such a move, and what is being done now to move in this direction?