This paper examines the status of and prospects for renewable energy technologies. It is argued that the prospects for obtaining large-scale supplies are good, especially in the industrialized countries, and that sufficient evidence exists for them to be taken much more seriously in the energy policy process. Reasons for their low status include inadequate data and a scepticism born of past disappointments. However, a failure to transfer existing knowledge to the policy community and well documented institutional and psychological processes are probably more important. A major change of attitudes is required and is in the long run inevitable, but the process will not be easy. Together with energy efficiency and natural gas, renewable sources will then emerge as the third leg of the triad which will lead the way out of the growing energy/environmental impasse. However, the changes involved could either deepen or alleviate political conflicts: a great deal will hinge upon the timing and path of the changes. © 1990.
