The first priority is to minimise energy use - e.g. insulation before air conditioning, etc. Energy production should be decentralised where possible, as centralised energy incurs overheads, waste and loss in transmission that can be difficult to quantify and overlooked or not addressed in business plans.
Notes
Peak oil is still being argued but alternative energy sources include the gasification of coal, a viable approach provided concerns about mercury from coal power plants can be addressed. Natural Gas has become abundant and cheap and now there is a global market developing, similar to oil. A new solar development is in artificial photosynthesis.
In Costa Rica, the minister of environment sets the policy for energy, mines, water and natural resources. National planning is necessary - e.g. China is racing ahead of the US in solar because of its national strategies.
Government and industry set the standards and this gives the lead for consumers. Energy-saving globes, for example, are being accepted with reluctance but now new incandescents may replace them. The ultimate demand is at consumer level, so this is where plans should start. Hence decentralised power options are the first step.
Household appliances are becoming more energy-intensive and show the need for standards and consumer education.
