Table 2.2 Operational Considerations Imposed by Different Energy Sources ENERGY SOURCES LOCATION ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT Fossil Fuels: Oil • discrete source locations, • transportation to use point is required, usually by tanker or pipeline • burning produces air contaminants, especially carbon dioxidewhich contribute to the greenhouse effect • transportation by sea may result in oil spills • pipeline construction disturbs natural ecosystems and can interfere with migration • fire hazard at production and storage sites with resulting loss of property and land and air pollution Gas • discrete source locations, • transportation to use point is required, usually by pipeline • fairly "clean" energy source, burning produces mainly carbon dioxide and water • pipeline construction disturbs natural ecosystems and can interfere with migration • serious fire hazard at production and storage sites with resulting loss of property and land and air pollution Coal • discrete source locations, • transportation to use point is required, usually by railroad or boat • burning produces air contaminants (carbon dioxide and sulfur) which contribute to the greenhouse effect and acid rain • concentration of heavy metals in ash • mining disturbs natural ecosystems (especially strip mining) and can produce hazardous conditions for workers and surrounding communities Nuclear: Fission • fuel found at discrete locations • requires transportation to use point and special handling for worker safety as well as security reasons • risk of accidental release of radioactivity to atmosphere during electricity production • waste material is highly radioactive and must be contained for decades • risk of diversion of fissile material to bombs Fusion • fuel can be produced near use point • radioactive equipment due to operation will need special storage Renewable: Solar • everywhere on Earth, source and use location are usually the same • low density distribution not well correlated to area of use; may require distribution • large arrays may effect natural ecosystems • no impact on atmosphere • manufacturing of solar cells produces toxic waste
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