How long would it take US to undergo transition of fossil fuels to solar energy?

Answer 1

A world that uses only renewable energy sources is a long way into the future.

Solar energy use in the US has been increasing. The rapid increase in oil prices in 2008 motivated many people to look closer at alternatives, including solar energy. Also, solar energy is a non-polluting source of energy.

Forecasts of how much of our energy will come from solar energy can vary greatly. I have included a link to the US Department of Energy's website, which shows that in terms of power generation, solar energy accounts for only 0.11 of the 383.16 billion kilowatts of energy.

By 2030, it is forecasted that this energy source will provide 0.94 billion kw of energy, a very small fraction of our total energy needs. Hydroelectric is the largest source of renewable energy, followed by wind power.

So, we have begun to increase consumption of renewable fuels. That's the good news. But it is still forecasted that our energy needs will rise in the next 11 years, and much of that will come from non-renewable sources.

I have included a spreadsheet from the DOE website, which you will need to have Excel on your computer. Also, you will have to maximize the spreadsheet by clicking on the small square icon. You can calculate the percentage increases each year in the various sources of energy.