Renewable Energy: Today's Contribution, Tomorrow's Promise. Worldwatch Paper 81.

This document presents the position that renewable energy sources offer a timely alternative to dwindling oil supplies and to environmentally damaging coal combustion, although public support and financial backing need to be strengthened. An expanded use of renewables and a greater commitment to energy efficiency are the most cost-effective and environmentally sound approaches to mitigating many seemingly intractable problems. The booklet contains specific sections on: (1) harnessing the power of water; (2) new uses of biomass; (3) power from the sun; (4) tapping the energy of the wind; (5) laying the institutional groundwork for a shift to using more renewables; and (6) increasing the overall energy contribution available for renewables. (TW)