Practical limitations and recognizing hype

Abstract

Large swaths of the public lack a basic understanding of energy issues. This fact, coupled with a desire for a miracle that will mitigate energy and environmental concerns, makes clean energy an area ripe for hype. Many technologies are described that are possible, yet will never be practical. As scientists and engineers we must do better job explaining the difference. Practical limitations were ignored as the development of cellulosic ethanol rode a wave of optimism and hype earlier in this decade. It is now clear that cellulosic ethanol is not delivering on the promises made. Scientists and engineers will continue to show us what is possible. We must focus our efforts in energy on those technologies that can also be practical.