Solar and Wind Energy

Which is the more viable energy source for Australia’s energy and needs, Wind or Solar? This is a common debatable topic within the Federal Government of Australia. Debating which specific form of energy should be invested heavily in, in hope that carbon emissions and the use of coal will be reduced in the future (Clean Line, 2013). It is believed that the dominance of coal will be challenged by renewable energy e.g. Wind and Solar. Renewable energy is fast, clean, affordable, efficient, reliable and ultimately infinite in that both Wind and Solar are an endless effective energy source. This form of energy releases no carbon emissions thus resulting in a cleaner environment, that also helps create jobs and stimulate local economies (Clean Line, 2013). Throughout this investigation the social and environmental relevance in relation to geology will be highlighted as well as which Alternative Energy of Wind and Solar will be a more viable option to be heavily invested in as well as relating it to ‘Australia’s energy consumption and/or needs’. Specifically for this investigation we will be determine both advantages and disadvantages of Solar Panels and Wind Turbines these are the most popular resource and infrastructure that relate to Wind and Solar energy. This process will decrease the possibility of biasness throughout this investigation. Wind energy is an example of a cost-effective ‘Alternative energy’ with potential to compete with other energy sources of coal, gas and nuclear power ultimately being a more efficient and viable option where no carbon emission will be released into the environment. Our current wind resources and infrastructure is the result of the vast improvement and growth of technology in our current generation (Clean Line, 2013). These resources can be seen in South Australia where almost half of the nation’s Wind Power capacity is created. The most effective South Australian wind farms in terms of capacity (MW) are located in Lake Bonney..