Unveiling the Reality of 100% Renewable Energy

In today’s world, “100% renewable energy” is a catchy phrase used by businesses, cities, and even countries. But what does it truly entail? Is it a pipe dream or a realistic goal?

What Are Renewables?

First, we need to clarify what “renewable” means. Renewable energy sources are those that can be replenished naturally within a human timescale. This includes sunlight, wind, water (hydropower), geothermal heat, and biomass (plant and animal matter). These resources are constantly being generated, unlike fossil fuels like coal and oil which take millions of years to form

The Nuances of 100%

Now, achieving 100% renewable energy doesn’t necessarily mean every single electron powering your home comes directly from a solar panel or windmill. The reality is a bit more intricate. Here’s why:

The Grid

Most areas rely on an interconnected electrical grid. While you might be using a renewable energy source like solar panels on your roof, the electricity you use at night might come from a different source on the grid, potentially non-renewable.

Storage Challenges

Renewable energy sources like solar and wind aren’t always consistent. The sun doesn’t shine 24/7, and the wind doesn’t always blow. Storing excess renewable energy for later use is a challenge that’s being actively addressed with battery technology, but it’s not yet a perfect solution.

Balancing Act

Ensuring enough power is always available to meet fluctuating demand requires a complex balancing act. Grid operators might rely on backup sources like natural gas plants during peak hours or when renewable sources aren’t producing enough

The Path to 100%

Despite these challenges, the goal of 100% renewable energy is still crucial for combating climate change and ensuring a sustainable future. Here are some key strategies:

  • Increased Renewable Capacity: Building more solar farms, wind turbines, and geothermal plants is essential to increase the overall share of renewable energy in the grid.
  • Energy Storage Solutions: Developing efficient and cost-effective ways to store excess renewable energy is key to overcoming intermittency issues.
  • Demand Management: Encouraging smarter energy use and reducing consumption during peak hours can help minimize reliance on non-renewables.
  • Grid Modernization: : Upgrading and expanding the electrical grid to better integrate and manage renewable energy sources is critical.

The Takeaway

100% renewable energy is a complex journey, not a destination. It requires innovation, infrastructure development, and a shift in how we manage and consume energy. While it may not be a perfect system today, by acknowledging the challenges and working towards solutions, we can move towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.

If you missed it, you can read how IMU’s energy provider, The Municipal Energy Agency of Nebraska (MEAN), is committed to a sustainable future, aiming for a carbon-neutral power supply portfolio by 2050. See Article.