Final answer:
In addition to being cheaper to produce, alternative energy forms such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power are environmentally friendly, which contributes to their lower true cost in comparison to traditional non-renewable energy sources. Green energy prioritizes sustainability and minimizes environmental impact, making it more favorable for long-term energy needs. The correct option is d) Environmentally friendly
Step-by-step explanation:
In addition to cheaper production costs, most forms of alternative energy have a lower true cost because they are d) Environmentally friendly. Green energy involves finding new ways to harness clean and renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, and biomass.
These sources are considered more sustainable and have less environmental impact compared to non-renewable energy sources like fossil fuels and nuclear power which have a higher ecological footprint due to factors like emissions and potential hazards.
Renewable energy sources are continually replenished and available over time scales meaningful to humans, making their use more advantageous, especially in the context of energy crises or when fossil fuel supplies decline. Moreover, the price of solar energy is falling dramatically, making it more financially viable.
It is crucial, however, to consider the substantial initial energy investment required to build and deploy these technologies. Initiatives to transition to a sustainable energy regime are best begun before energy scarcity, to avoid an "energy trap" where large-scale deployment of alternatives becomes too taxing on society's resources. The correct option is d) Environmentally friendly