Final answer:
Renewable energy sources like solar, wind, hydroelectric, biomass, and geothermal have the potential to meet our energy needs and reduce dependency on fossil fuels. As technology advances and becomes more cost-effective, the shift towards sustainability becomes more feasible. A substantial shift towards renewable energy will also involve changes in our energy consumption patterns and habits.
Step-by-step explanation:
Renewable sources of energy could produce enough electricity to eliminate the need for fossil fuels in the near future. The transition to renewable energy is being driven by concerns over climate change, energy security, and the economic impacts of importing oil. Nuclear power provides low-carbon electricity but comes with the challenges of managing spent fuel. In contrast, renewables like solar, wind, hydroelectric, biomass, and geothermal are being increasingly used, with the potential to provide a sustainable and substantial portion of our energy needs.
While renewable energy sources currently account for about 10% of the United States energy, they are on the rise and are essential for ensuring long-term sustainability. These energy sources, such as solar and wind, have the advantage of being replenished in a human timescale, making them inexhaustible over long periods. As technology improves and costs decrease, renewable energies are likely to become more competitive with fossil fuels, potentially leading to a significant shift in how we produce energy.
However, a full transition to renewable energy may require changes in consumption habits and energy use, underscoring the importance of technological advances in energy storage and efficiencies. Countries that harness a sizeable percentage of energy from renewables demonstrate that sustainable energy goals are achievable, and continued progress in this direction may help in reducing dependence on non-renewable sources and mitigating the carbon footprint linked to energy consumption.