The first law of thermodynamics states that energy is neither created nor destroyed; it only
changes form. Energy can be transformed, but the total energy in the world is constant.
However, this statement does not take into effect our ability to capture and use energy in all
of its forms. The energy of fossil fuels is stored in the form of chemical bonds. When we
burn fossil fuels, we release some of the energy stored Wind and solar power derive their
energy from the Sun. An energy crisis arises when demand exceeds supply. Unless we are
better able to capture energy from sources other than fossil fuels, we will indeed have an
energy crisis – not due to a shortage of absolute energy but a shortage in our ability to use the
energy available.