The Thermodynamic and Practical Limits to Energy Conversion: Considerations in the Search for Alternative Energy Sources

This paper discusses efficiency of energy production based on the various methods used to generate it. The purpose of the paper is to point out the need of inclusion of the energy cost associated in obtaining all the materials (not just the fuel) needed to produce energy. The discussion starts with thermodynamic efficiency and them moves to the energy costs associated with mining, refining, construction and manufacturing of the construction materials. The concept of embodied energy, i.e., energy used to create the product (or the energetic material, for that matter) is explained and given for certain products or systems. Among the several options to classical (fossil) fuel reserves, solar energy conversion as a resource is considered