Although renewable energy is a popular idea these days, I am not so sure that relying solely on one type of renewable energy is the path to a sustainable future as some might have us think. The reason I say this is because of what has happened to corn prices as a result of ethanol production in the Midwest region of the United States. Because of increased ethanol production in this region, prices for corn, the primary raw material for ethanol, have dramatically increased. In addition, it has put a strain on other industries as farmers use their farmland to produce more corn instead of other less profitable crops.

This highlights the need for careful consideration of any new so-called “renewable” energy source and the effect it will have on resources whether it be human or natural. For example, solar and wind energy could put a tremendous strain on the raw materials needed to produce the equipment/machinery needed to generate electricity. As such, it is a good idea for governments to adopt a policy of diversified energy sources and for consumers to demand diverse energy sources.

A diversified energy regime makes sense in that it does not allow any one type of supply of energy to have too much control over over that supply of energy much in the way OPEC has control over crude oil supplies. In addition, if the resources for the raw materials for one type of energy are strained, then communities can move to other forms of energy to take advantage of lower prices, availability, etc.

In the end, it only makes sense for consumers to demand and for governments to mandate a diversified energy regime. What do you think?