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Originally Posted by jorgelito
Just think if they decided to go to corn-ethanol for energy. Cost of corn would skyrocket. As it is, food prices should be set to increase as they need to import more and more.
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Yeah, the use of corn ethanol as a major fuel source is borderline unethical (is it over the line, maybe?) considering the devastating impact it would have on populations that depend on corn as a staple. Consider Mexico.
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Originally Posted by jorgelio
I always felt that China and India were positioned well to be on the forefront of renewable energy and sustainable development. Sadly, their leadership is as myopic as ours. Such a shame.
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Au contraire...
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Renewable energy source usage is significantly higher in Asia than in the US where renewables comprise just 11.5%. Renewables account for 32.0% of India’s total electricity generation capacity. In China and Japan they represent 21.0% and 20.0% respectively.
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Source: Business Insights.
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Addressing the valedictory session of “Solar India 2007” conference and exhibition, organised by the World Institute of Sustainable Energy (WISE), Pune, Mr. Muttemwar said the 9 per cent power shortage in the country could only be bridged through renewable energy.
“Renewable energy has made a contribution of 10,400 MW to the national grid. The target set for the 11th Plan period is to achieve 14,000 MW power capacity through renewable energy,” he said.
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Source: The Hindu.
I think what is at issue is the fact that both India and China a rapidly growing economies. It is the increase in demand for energy that makes them look like hogs... also consider that they already have huge populations. Compare the per-capita use of energy between the U.S. and virtually any Asian country. I'm actually a bit relieved that they are at least considering renewable energy sources to match increasing demand and to replace outdated sources. Let's hope they follow through.