Building a sustainable energy future : supply and demand options

Fossil fuel depletion and concerns over global climate
change are increasing the demand for sustainable and clean
solutions for electricity generation. In the coming years some of
the most difficult engineering challenges in history will have to
be faced if a future with sustainable energy is to be developed.
In light of this challenge investments in human infrastructure
are essential in particular for early stage students who represent
the generation who will have to truly solve future energy needs.
This paper discusses an initiative in Ireland to foster an interest
in energy issues for undergraduate students. A report made by
the students on sustainable energy issues in Ireland is discussed
here. The students focussed on recommendations that can be
achieved in the short to medium term thus in many cases the
infrastructural changes needed are simply a change in thinking
or operational approach. One of the key infrastructural issues
that arose is the importance of spatial planning in all areas of
energy demand and supply.