Myth or Fact: Renewables are enough to power the world
Could solar and wind energy alone power the world?
Only if it is coupled with enough energy storage. Despite big growth over the past 20 years, solar and wind alone cannot keep up with the rising global energy demands.
There are different kinds of energy storage options: short duration (electrochemical batteries & flywheels), and long-duration (pumped hydro). We need a wide range of solutions that will fit a wide range of problems. There is no technology available that is one-size-fits-all. This is something we don’t talk about enough. There are Japan and China are leading the way by experimenting with grid-level storage technologies.
Even then, solar and wind can’t be used everywhere. We need a portfolio of options. We need to take advantage of other clean sources like nuclear and hydroelectric into the mix so we can reduce and eventually eliminate fossil fuels like gas, coal, and oil.
Want to know more? There is a video explainer down below. Here are also a few articles to get you started:
1. https://arpa-e.energy.gov/?q=project-tech-areas/storage
2. https://www.vox.com/energy-and-environment/2018/9/20/17877850/arpa-e-long-term-energy-storage-days
3. https://www.ucsusa.org/clean-energy/how-energy-storage-works
5. https://about.bnef.com/blog/energy-storage-620-billion-investment-opportunity-2040/
Myth or Fact: Can Solar and Wind Power Alone Power the World?
Despite big growth in the past 20 years, solar and wind alone cannot keep up with the rising global energy demands. We need energy storage as well. It is something we don’t talk about enough. Also, adding other clean sources like nuclear and hydroelectric into the mix can help reduce and eventually eliminate fossil fuels like gas, coal, and oil.