Summary, Projections, and Consequences of the Policies

Abstract

The eight policy proposals for a comprehensive sustainable energy policy are based on science and engineering data regarding natural resource abundances, fossil fuel impacts to our environment and society, global warming and climate change, trends in innovation, the increasing awareness of citizens regarding the implications of a carbon economy and the need to move to a clean energy economy, and the desire of select elected officials and lawmakers to affect such a transition. There are a number of estimates of rates of transition and of the mix of energy sources, ranging from remaining petroleum-based to moving toward an entirely carbon-free energy economy. It is envisioned that renewables can and will comprise approximately 75% of the energy sources used in America by 2060. The policies guide the various energy sectors toward this goal on a constructive and realistic timeline.