needs, will encompass a period well beyond the turn of the century. Although there is no dearth of projections of how these energy needs may be met, the dynamic changes taking place in the scientific and technical fields, the increasing role of the Third World on the international scene, and the hopes and aspirations of all people for a better life cannot be met without pursuing all worthwhile options for energy production. There is, as yet, no consensus in the scientific and technical community on the optimum solutions to complex energy supply problems. Strong views are being expressed, not only on the scientific and technical issues, but on the societal issues on which technology will have an impact. Thus, it is not surprising that faced with the array of technology options, whether they be based on “soft” or “hard” technologies, there is a reluctance to make a full commitment until there is a clearer understanding of the costs and benefits of the specific technologies being espoused by their proponents. However, there is an overriding need not to foreclose reasonable options until there is sufficient scientific evidence against a specific technology to warrant its discontinuation or to develop alternative innovative technologies. The wide range of technologies which can use renewable energy sources should permit innovations to be made by a broad spectrum of industrial organizations ranging from small businesses to major energy companies. The common objective must be to apply the best efforts to the solution of problems which are being created by the depletion of natural resources to reduce the insults to the environment by industrial societies, and to cope with the aftermath of burgeoning populations. Although there may be disagreements about the specific technologies which should be developed in support of societal goals, there should be no doubt that new knowledge, increased understanding, and enhanced scientific and technical capabilities will be essential to confront the challenges which must be met to achieve the inevitable transition to renewable resources and to that distant goal, the creation of a global civilization.
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