It is not often that one comes across a new technology that has the potential to re-write the rules re energy and security of supply. One such is the synthetic air to fuel process that is able to manufacture hydrocarbon fuel from the air whilst being carbon neutral. This appears mind boggling at first, but the concept is simple.
The plant is powered by renewable energy, typically wind. This electrical energy is then used to electrolyse the water into hydrogen and oxygen. The oxygen is discarded and the hydrogen is reacted with the CO2 in the air to make ethanol and other hydrocarbon fuels. The individual techniques are well understood, it is the combination that makes this an interesting process.
I will be watching this development with interest. More details on http://www.airfuelsynthesis.com/