Currently, most of our energy is not renewable, meaning it is being mined or drilled from a finite source. Our power supply is mainly generated from coal and our fuel supply is being made from petroleum.

Some renewable alternatives to traditional power sources such as coal, nuclear and gas would be solar, wind, hydro, and biomass. New achievements are being made into the cost and productivity of solar panels and wind turbines, making them some of the most popular choices for renewable energy. Biomass is a new energy source utilizing woody waste converted to gas at very high heat.

Transportation is a critical part of our American culture. Up until recently, fuel was an affordable expenditure, but with the prices of oil rising, we are all looking for new ideas on transportation. There is an increase in sales in more fuel efficient vehicles and also biofuels. Biofuels are made from agricultural sources unlike petroleum based fuels, which is why they are considered renewable energy. The two known biofuels are ethanol and biodiesel. Ethanol can be made from corn, potatoes, sugar cane, and even corn stalks. All vehicles can run on 10% ethanol (E10) but flex-fuel vehicles can run on up to 85% ethanol (E85). Biodiesel is made by chemically processing various oils or fats. Soybean, peanuts, canola, used fryer grease, and animal fats are just some possible feedstocks for biodiesel. All diesel engines can run on biodiesel with few problems.