FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT RENEWABLES

Myth: Solar or wind energy - plus conservation- are the answers to meet our energy needs

Wind and solar energy are intermittent sources of electricity and must be coupled with another generation source for system stability. The environmental benefits of intermittent renewable sources are reduced when combined with fossil fuel generation. Whereas hydropower, because of its storage capacity, provides an excellent backbone to a cleaner and more renewable electric grid.

Conservation and energy efficiency play an important role in environmental protection, but they cannot account for all future demand plus the replacement of retiring generation sources.

When considering energy policy, it's important to know the whole story. Few sources of electricity have as many economic, social and environmental benefits as hydropower. In addition to clean energy, hydropower projects can provide drinking water, flood management, irrigation, transportation, fisheries and outdoor recreation. A policy that promotes all sources of clean and renewable power and energy efficiency will do the most for maintaining a high quality of life and sustainable economic growth.

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