I kinda like 805moparkid's idea of Solar Panels at each house (at least until you stop and think what that would cost each and every person in terms of "start up" / equipment)
Come to think of it, most regions have enough of one or more methods of powering alternative energy sources. Be it sunshine, wind, water flow, etc. I've even heard that there are people that generate an excess of their own power, to the point where the local power companies have to buy the excess from them. (boy wouldn't that be cool :D )
Of course I'm pretty much talking out of my butt here, since this is all beyond me.