This post is based on an article of mine, “Methanol
electro fuel: A transport game changer” published in RenewEconomy on 12/3/13 . It has been expanded to
include more discussion on other renewable, low impact fuels and the extraction
of CO2 from air and water. Briefly:
The renewable, low impact fuels described
in this post can be produced in sufficient quantities to replace all fossil
fuel requirements using commercially proven processes. All these renewable products are low
impact because, unlike many bio-fuels, their production doesn’t require the
diversion of land from food production, or damage to the environment. With the
exception of hydrogen they could all be handled using existing gasoline, diesel
or LPG infrastructure. Ammonia and
methanol can replace LPG or gasoline after minor engine adjustments.
These renewable fuels are game changers. They provide an essential part of any
credible plan for 100% renewable transport. As a result we don’t have to choose between
100% renewable transport vs destroying the economy, starving the poor or
forgoing overseas travel.
Renewable hydrogen, methanol and ammonia
can also be used to convert the production of a wide range of metals and chemicals
to 100% renewable.
