ENERGY TECHNOLOGY

 

Energy is needed in the backcountry for heating, cooking, lighting, waste management, ventilation and communications.

Typical sources of energy used at backcountry facilities include wood burning, solar, micro-hydro, wind, propane, diesel, and bio-diesel. Helicopters and other forms of motorized transportation also represent significant sources of energy use.

The tendency is to use fossil fuel technology, which has environmental impacts, is costly to transport and is not environmentally sustainable. The use of renewable energy sources is encouraged. Scientists and industry experts may disagree over how long the world’s supply of oil and natural gas will last, but it will end. Environmental concerns, global warming, technology improvements and increased efficiencies have expanded the market for renewable energy. Renewable energy sources are becoming increasingly cost-effective, dependable and efficient.