Cutting carbons to clean up the climate

By Sheilah Downey

  Using solar and wind resources more efficently could cut more than 800 million metric tons of emissions from the eletricity sector in the United states, says a new report from the National Research Council.

  The U.S. could reach that goal by 2030, estimates the NRC, but the commitment and the numbers involved are staggering.

  But even with current technologies available, renewable resources could contribute more than they do now, says the report, sponsored by the National Academies of Sciences.

  As of 2007, hydroelectric power was generating seven percent of all U.S. electric power, the largest source of renewable electricity. While other resources, such as solar, wind, geothermal and biomass account for only 2.5 percent of electricity, "they have the potential to contribute far more," states the report.

  But for renewable energy to make a dent in U.S. carbon emissions, mind-boggling numbers are involved. For wind energy to contribute even 20 percent of U.S. electricity, more than 100,000 wind turbines would have to be constructed, says the report. On top of that, add $100 billion of additional investments and upgrades, and then hire 140,000 people to do the job.

  The pay off, however, would be eco-normous.

  Renewable energy lessens toxic emissions not only of carbon, but sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and mercury. It also consumes less water, and causes less contamination than fossil fuel electricity.

  If the use of renewable energy is to grow substantially, states the report, huge increases in the manufacture and installation of these technologies will be required. These will also lead to increases in employment and economic opportunities.

  The report is one of three from the National Academies' America's Energy Future project, and was co-sponsored by the Department of Energy, GE Energy, General Motors Corp., among others.