Don't forget human energy

There are those who say that we will never be able to supply the energy the world uses through renewables. They have a point.

Absent a breakthrough in nuclear technology, or something similar, it will be hard to generate enough electricity to supply the cavernous maw of consumers (present and future). If it is ever going to happen, we have to greatly reduce our need for electricity. Greater efficiency, turning down the heating, changing the light bulbs, and that sort of thing.

But that's not enough. Fortunately, each and every one of us is a source of almost unlimited energy. We could go back to horse power, but what about man power? And woman power. Or kid power? Why can't we harness the boundless energy of youngsters?

We can! A group in South Africa has done just that: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBEttIM-K8E. All you need to do is find a way for them to have fun, and they will provide endless energy. We grownups can do it too. Instead of hiring a floor polisher, do it yourself! I have to admit that I am the world's worst housekeeper when it comes to cleaning - I just don't. On one occasion I went to South Africa with the kids leaving David to mind the animals and the house. He decided that the kitchen floor needed attention (which was probably true). So he found a bottle of wine, put on some music and got down on his hands and knees. I imagine it was a very satisfying experience.

I hate household chores but I do like sweeping - no electricity needed. I also quite like ironing, but I have never found an electric iron that works. The most perfectly ironed items I have ever seen came from flat irons on an Aga stove. And the cleanest dishes come from two-legged dish-washers.

Think about it.