A.I. Explanation:

Correct answer: fell

Explanation: The verb 'fell' fits grammatically as it is the past tense of 'fall,' indicating that the traditional energy exploration plans did not succeed. This aligns with the context of facing a tough choice due to the lack of oil reserves, making it logically consistent with the overall sentiment of disappointment.

Meaning: 'Fell' in this context means to collapse or fail, indicating that the plans for energy exploration were unsuccessful.

Wrong options:

• worked: 'Worked' implies success or functionality, which contradicts the context of failure in the sentence.
• pushed: 'Pushed' suggests an effort to advance or promote something, which does not align with the idea of plans failing.
• carried: 'Carried' indicates continuation or support, which is not appropriate here as it does not convey the sense of failure.

Correct answer: became

Explanation: The verb 'became' is the correct choice as it indicates a transformation or change in status, fitting grammatically in the past tense. It aligns with the context of the sentence, where large-scale solar power plants are now the new goal after the failure of traditional energy plans.

Meaning: 'Became' means to come into being or to turn into something, indicating that solar power plants are now the focus of energy efforts.

Wrong options:

• behave: 'Behave' refers to actions or conduct, which does not fit the context of establishing a goal.
• behive: 'Behive' is a noun referring to a structure for bees, which is irrelevant in this context.
• beside: 'Beside' is a preposition indicating location, which does not fit grammatically or contextually.

Correct answer: sparking

Explanation: The gerund 'sparking' fits well as it indicates the initiation of local green energy hopes, aligning with the context of the sentence. It suggests that the new goal of solar power plants is igniting interest or enthusiasm in green energy.

Meaning: 'Sparking' means to ignite or stimulate, indicating that the focus on solar energy is encouraging local initiatives for green energy.

Wrong options:

• delaying: 'Delaying' implies postponement, which contradicts the idea of fostering hopes and initiatives.
• ignoring: 'Ignoring' suggests neglect, which does not align with the positive action of promoting green energy hopes.
• crushing: 'Crushing' indicates destruction or defeat, which is contrary to the idea of fostering or supporting local energy hopes.