text: should we start looking for an alternative energy source in this decade? if so, what do you think is the best source of alternative energy? we should have started decades ago.  some people think it's already too late.  for one thing, finding anything that is capable of providing the same amount of energy as easily as petroleum ... is doubtful at best.  additionally, the only way we're going to make these discoveries is if we make them before we run out of oil.  remember, oil is not just for energy.  most everything we use is made by using oil ... like plastics.  best source: solar.  we should all have solar cells on our roofs, provided by the federal government.