Energy myth seven-renewable energy systems could never meet growing electricity demand in america

Abstract

This chapter refutes the myth that renewable energy resources are insufficient or too diffuse to meet U.S. electricity demand growth and, in the longer term, total electricity demand. In principle, the U.S. renewable energy resource base can meet national electrical demand many times over although significant technical and economic challenges remain. The case for renewably generated electricity brightens as renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies advance and the environmental, health, security, and other costs - including climate change impacts - of fossil-based energy become reflected in market prices. The chapter discusses impacts of fossil fuel-based generation, the renewable energy resource base, trends and advances in renewable energy technologies and costs, and limitations and impediments to renewable energy for electricity. The chapter also addresses policy options for mitigating negative impacts of electrical generation while promoting cleaner energy systems.