Let's put it this way: we had te technology for basic solar energy in the 19th century. If we had forbidden fossil fuels and exclusively used solar and other renewables like hydro, we would have taken a much longer time to get where we are today, but the environment would have benefited and we wouldn't be in such trouble with climate change. The path we choose is just that: a choice. And cheap choices are easier.

I'm all for innovation, but one of the most laughable human qualities is the idea that there will ever be a solution to a problem that makes the problem go away. Ex: We may have eliminated smallpox but if it ever came back we'd be in serious trouble.