After 'Peak Oil,' will natural gas fill energy needs?

For several centuries now, civilization has benefited from a very special gift that is about to end: virtually free energy in virtually unlimited quantities. The most precious of these energies is oil, which has been the driving force of civilization.

Because oil has been available in ever-increasing quantities and at very affordable prices, we have become spoiled. We assume that abundance will extend into the future as well.

Unfortunately, geologists tell us that a change is about to take place that threatens our way of life. Our expanding population is on a collision course with a diminishing supply of oil. We shall soon begin to compete for the dwindling quantities of oil that remain.

Many analysts say that we already achieved “Peak Oil” — in 2008. Others say it is still a year or two off. But one fact is irrefutable. Cheap energy from oil is finite. It will not, it cannot last.

Times Union