soundings asked each of our interviewees about the alternative energy source they were most excited about for the future. Here’s how they responded to our own (unscientific) energy survey.

Joskow: I think the most interesting alternative technologies are associated with the production of new biofuels that are not based on corn and can be used as substitutes for gasoline in vehicles. Cellulosic ethanol is especially interesting—both for energy security and environmental reasons. On the electricity side, I think the most interesting question is whether we can find economical ways to capture, transport and store the CO2 produced when coal is used to generate electricity.

Ansolabehere: Even though it just seems unbelievable that we have to do this, it seems like anything that takes the carbon out of coal—or increases the efficiency with which we burn coal—has got to be the source of the solution. But I also think solving the problem of photovoltaic storage from the sun would be very big.

Jacobs: Well, I’m engaged enough on this question, even though this isn’t my subject, to say that my next car will be a hybrid! And I’ve changed all the lightbulbs in my house. Also, unlike the people on the Cape and Nantucket, I think wind turbines look kind of cool.

Shulman: The bicycle. Seriously, I think the most exciting alternative out there is to consume less. Whether that’s turning off the lights, or putting in more efficient lightbulbs, or taking public transportation. It’s possibly the least sexy alternative, but it’s probably the most exciting in terms of what it can accomplish.

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