ABSTRACT
The twenty-rst century is forming into the perfect energy storm. Rising energy prices, diminishing energy availability and security, and growing environmental concerns are quickly changing the global energy panorama. Energy and water are the keys to modern life and provide the basis necessary for sustained economic development. Industrialized societies have become increasingly dependent on fossil fuels for myriad uses. Modern conveniences, mechanized agriculture, and global population growth have only been made possible through the exploitation of inexpensive fossil fuels. Securing sustainable and future energy supplies will be the greatest challenge faced by all societies in this century.
