Utilities rely on dirty ‘peaker’ plants when power demand surges, but there are alternatives
As renewables account for a growing share of electricity supply, fossil fuel plants are increasingly used to balance fluctuations in renewable generation – emitting health-threatening pollutants.
Sept. 5, 2024 • ~9 min
Global inequality must fall to maintain a safe climate and achieve a decent standard of living for all – it's a huge challenge
Energy inequality will have to reduce substantially by 2050 to maintain a safe climate and decent living standards for all.
Feb. 14, 2023 • ~7 min
What is curtailment? An electricity market expert explains
Sometimes wind and solar power produce more electricity than the local grid can handle. Better energy storage and transmission could move extra energy to where it’s needed instead of shutting it off.
June 22, 2022 • ~6 min
The US needs a macrogrid to move electricity from areas that make it to areas that need it
The US electricity grid is actually five regional grids, and it's hard to share power between them. A macrogrid could bridge the gaps, making electricity cheaper and more reliable.
April 5, 2021 • ~9 min
Why a green electricity grid depends on weather forecasts improving
Ramping up fossil power sources is no longer a good option in an energy-supply crisis. Bring in the weather forecasters.
Jan. 14, 2021 • ~5 min
Renewable energy supply and demand during lockdown – and the best time to bake bread
Consumers can play their part in reducing carbon emissions by choosing to shift their energy use to when renewable generation is at its daily peak.
June 29, 2020 • ~7 min
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