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One of the hidden factors within the energy situation we find ourselves in
is that as the saying goes, "there's no such thing as a free lunch". All forms
of electricity generation currently utilised have a cost, whether it be
pollution of one sort or another, or a physical cost, such as the huge
rainshadows downwind of windfarms. Ocean [wave or tidal] derived power
systems are not exempt from this. The French tidal station that has been operating for many years has caused a minute but measurable slowing of the Earth's rotation, and it is only a modest sized station. I imagine the effect would be far greater if we had myriads of large stations around the globe.
I have to disagree regarding diesel outlasting petrol. Several large cities
around the world have already announced plans to ban all diesels by a
certain date, amongst them, Paris, Athens, and Mexico City. Even the latest hi-tech diesels can often be seen emitting a fine light brown haze of filth
when accelerating. Also ZF now produce modular electric drive systems
that can be made to fit virtually any existing bus [and soon, truck] chassis,
and can be retrofitted to existing diesel or petrol vehicles. I can't remember
it's name. but the biggest selling light truck in Europe is now available in an electric version, and is already outselling the diesel version.
It's all happening.
raymo
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