Can any combination of known energy sources successfully supply society’s energy needs at least up to the year 2100? Interesting question, but a somewhat startling answer: No, there is little likelihood that conventional fossil fuels and/or alternative energy sources can provide the amount and quality of energy needed, a new study by two prominent California-based environmental/economic think tanks asserts.

Add to this that there is no way to get to silicon-based solar panels directly from a wood-burning economy. I.e. society needs a fossil fuel runway to make the plastics that can then help develop efficient, viable clean alternative energy. If the oil and coal run out before we make this transition, it could be game over permanently.