Is an All-Renewable Grid Viable?
California is at the forefront of renewable energy, and in a few decades could potentially become the first state to build and maintain an all-renewable grid. In fact, a mandate was recently passed by the state legislature that would require California electric utilities to generate 100% of their electricity via clean energy sources by 2045 (Hawaii has a similar mandate). If Governor Brown signs the legislation, an all-renewable grid would definitely be required.
Pros and Cons of an All-Renewable Grid
Obviously the main pro of an all-renewable grid is the facilitation of clean energy. A secondary benefit is that it would force companies to become more innovative, as the technology to accommodate 100% renewables needs to be developed.
Unfortunately, there are two substantial cons that put a damper on feasibility. These are:
- Cost: renewable energy tends to be – for now anyway – more expensive than energy from traditional sources. Plus, the grid would require enhancements and updates to accommodate 100% renewables.
- Storage: 100% clean energy would require energy storage because we can’t control the weather. Unfortunately, the technology behind energy storage is not yet ready for prime time.
As you can see, an all-renewable grid would need to harness technology that doesn’t exist today, and would require millions if not billions of dollars to develop. Given than we’re talking decades in the future, I think it can be done, but it will be anything but easy.
At the end of the day, I for one do not know if an all-renewable grid is worth the cost and/or effort. I’m skeptical, but will be watching closely as the concept continues to evolve and progress.
