Interesting Innovations in Alternative Energy

In attempts to create a post, I was browsing the internet in hope to find something that interested me. I came across a website that had some very interesting advances that are being applied to alternative energy sources. Here they are:

"Artificial Trees to Harness Solar and Wind Energy"
The title alone makes me wonder. But it seems legitimate. Here's the thing. Many people who are in support of the "green" movement, say that we should plant trees. This will help save our planet from global warming. Well, this article argues that, although this will help, we won't be able to see results for a very long time (as trees take several years to grow and mature). They don't suggest we stop forestation. In fact, it's quite the opposite. Forestation is still encouraged. However, a London based company came up with a concept of "planting" artificial trees. These trees will generate solar and wind energy. How this works? The answer to this question is left unanswered. However, I still find it to be a pretty entertaining concept.

"Energy from Solar Roadways"
An Idaho based company called Solar Roadways is making an attempt to create roads constructed of solar panels. Since roads are covered in sunlight whenever there is sun out, there couldn't be a better location for a solar panel to be. Efforts are still in the beginning stages. The company is currently working in tandem with universities and research laboratories to develop a 45-mile prototype solar road. Excitement is rising: "We can convert 25,000 miles of petroleum-based asphalt highways and byways of the lower 48 states into Solar Roadways! Similar results can be achieved with the parking lots, airports, malls, stadiums and driveways!"

"Robot Ranchers Could Maintain Future Wind Farms"
We've all heard of the concept of wind energy. In fact, we've all most likely seen a windmill of some sort on the side of the road at some point in our lives. The main problems with wind energy include the high cost and high maintenance. Although it would still be an expensive form of alternative energy (for now-until we're able to drive down the costs), robots would be able to maintain the "wind farms." This would be an effective alternative source of energy, as well as remaining clean and green!

I'm sure we've all seen documentaries or ran into media about alternative energy. There's no doubting that we need to find something that works that is practically attainable. These were a few innovations in this field that I have found interesting. If we don't begin to change soon, we may find that it's too late. Fossil fuels will run out, so we need to begin adapting our lifestyles now, before we run into problems.