Climate change or energy security?

Question

Governments, NGOs and lobbyists are demanding the world moves to renewable energy sources in order to reduce carbon emissions and alleviate climate change. What actual difference "on the ground" would it make if they insisted the world moves to renewable energy sources because the oil and gas reserves are diminishing and demand is starting to exceed supply?

Answer 1

If the use of renewable energy sources was required, energy prices would skyrocket.  At this point in time they are much more expensive than coal or oil.  High prices for heating and food (food prices increase as a result of increased transportation costs).  If the price of oil increased to the cost of solar or wind power, they would be a reasonable source of energy.  That, however; is unlikely.

Answer 2

They already do both, so it doesn't matter.  The different phrases are significant to different people, and while they don't rxactly have the same meaning, can be used to the same effect as appropriate.  In the US, climate change is still controversial, so politicians can get done what needs to be done, especially with regard to working with other countries, but since they couch it in security terms, avoid fire from the anti-ACG crowd.