Fossil fuels provide the main source of energy in our world today. Since the Industrial Revolution in the 19th Century, we have relied on coal, oil and gas. We use fossil fuels to generate electricity, power vehicles and provide us with heat. According to Government figures, fossil fuels are used to generate 75% of the UK’s electricity, with 20% coming from nuclear power and the remainder from alternative sources of energy, such as wind power, solar power and hydrogen.

Problems with current energy sources

Whilst fossil fuels provide many benefits for life today there are some major problems associated with their use. The two main issues are:

• Climate change
• Limited availability

When fossil fuels are burnt they produce greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, which are contributing to climate change. Fossil fuels are also non-renewable, which means one day they might run out.

Energy consumption

Despite the problems with fossil fuels, we are using more and more energy. This is because the world's population is growing and standards of living continue to rise. This means that there is increased demand for transport, electricity, food, goods and services, all of which require energy.

However, there are signs that energy consumption is starting to slow in some parts of the world. This is due to rising energy prices, measures to become more energy efficient and an increasing use of alternative renewable sources of energy.

In the UK, the amount of energy used in industry is decreasing. However, we are using more energy in our homes and for transport than ever before.

Targets

Scientists are working with governments and businesses to find ways of reducing the demand for energy and increasing the use of renewable sources of 'clean energy', which do not emit carbon dioxide.

Car manufacturers have also made commitments to help reduce carbon dioxide emissions. The European Car Manufacturers' Association (ACEA) set the target of reducing carbon dioxide emissions from new cars by 25% by the end of 2008.

The future

To meet these targets, it is important that we begin to use sources of energy that are renewable and have no harmful effects on the environment. Experts believe that using hydrogen to produce 'clean' energy for use in homes, buildings and for transport could be one of the alternative ways forward.