One of the problems with Solar and Wind is that at present and in
the coming future (I have heard at least a decade) is that we can
not generate enough power from them.
True - and we have a nimby problem as well when it comes to locating
the collection points and transmitting the electricity.
No, it's not true. You are thinking about renewable energy in a very
narrow way. Around 30% of all energy used in this country is wasted
through lack of energy efficiency. Efficiency is cheap. It's easy and
doesn't require a much of a change in your lifestyle--energy meter,
insulation, timers, smart switches, replace a broken water heater or
refrigerator or AC with an efficient one; you're going to do it anyway,
so get a good one and reduce your energy bill. Same for other appliances
including transportation. Increasing the availability and use of mass
transportation where possible also saves energy.
However one of the big misconceptions is that solar and wind have to be
part of the power grid. Passive solar doesn't at all. Photovoltaics can
be but don't have to be unless you don't produce 100% of your own power.
The NIMBYs and CAVEs [citizens against virtually everything] are a small
but very loud contingent and often can be tempted by the money they'll
be saving. Offshore wind farms can be several miles out to sea where
they can barely be seen, where the wind is steadier. Other wind farms
are in the mountains, and on private farms where owners are paid rent by
the turbine companies. Turbines run slowly enough that they're not a
significant danger to migrating birds according to recent reports on
newer turbines. Individuals in remote locations can generate their own
off-grid power.
As with much of science and technology, the facts and details are often
lost in the news blips that are released to the general public.
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