Should the world be building wind energy at an ever increasing rate for when oil runs out?
Sunday, March 21st, 2010 at
1:58 pm
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Filed under: Wind Power
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What are we going to do when the wind runs out?
Where are we going to find the space to put all these windmills?
Who’s going to pay for this ridiculously expensive electricity?
Why would we choose an energy source with such a large carbon footprint for the small amount of electricity it produces?
I don’t get the question.
Wind energy is a good idea, even if it must be subsidized to be profitable. This is because for national security purposes it is logical to have as many sources of power as possible.
However, your question makes some assumptions that aren’t accurate.
1) Oil isn’t running out any time soon. We’re talking hundreds of years.
2) Oil is also not a power generation fuel. It’s a transportation fuel and, in some regions, a heating fuel. It is also used as a chemical feedstock. Only about 2% of the power consumed in the US is generated using oil and that is mostly through its use as a backup to natural gas.
3) In the US, in terms of power generation, we’re already pretty close to energy-independence. 55% of the power consumed in the US is generated via coal, 99% of which is domestically-sourced. Another 40% combined comes from nuclear, natural gas and hydroelectric – and to the small extent to which we import natural gas or power generated from hydro, most of that is from Canada, not the Middle East or another hostile region. Most renewables are also domestic.
Bottom line, wind energy is a good idea but has nothing to do with either oil or energy independence.
Yes it should, however not all areas are good for wind turbines there are just not enough consistent wind in a lot of areas. There are actually wind maps on the internet to view. Those of us that live in low wind areas can’t even get a second look from people that build wind turbines because they feel that it isn’t cost effective. There is even a special meter (if you can get your hands on one) that measures the wind rate in your selected spot to see if a wind turbine would be effective. But as I said its almost impossible to get your hands on them.
Frankly I think we should be building them just to clean up the environment. And you are absolutely correct in that it would grant the building nations independence from the big oil companies. And create a ton of green jobs But unless you plan on hiring assassins to knock off all the lobbyists we don’t stand much of a chance. Those guys get paid big bucks to make sure washington does what they say which is why they get away with charging 2.69 per gallon! Sorry, but there is no excuse for record breaking profits with a recession covering the globe.
Good Question.The answer is yes but only in areas where wind always blows.For other areas Solar power is the better answer.Did you know that right now the U.S, Government is giving tax breaks to every home ,business,church,etc. that converts to renewable energy.The time has naver been better to help yourself and community with alternative energy sources.For any info please contact http://www.blueviewsolar.com in adress bar NOW.Thanks