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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ABOUT RENEWABLES
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