According to arecent pollfrom Yale University, climate change is now the most polarizing topic in the United States. With such differing perspectives on the causes and implications of climate change, it is not surprising that conversations about renewable energy frequently turn into political debates rather than productive discussions on the potential environmental and economic benefits of renewable energy power generation.
再生能源Benefits Our Environment
There is no debating that energy use in the U.S. accounts for just over two-thirds of the country’s total annual greenhouse gas emissions; and that power generation is responsible for the bulk of these emissions. According to2015年报告by the International Renewable Energy Agency, if the amount of renewable energy produced by the U.S. in 2015 were doubled, then half of the total greenhouse gas emission reductions needed to halt global warming could be obtained. Luckily, windy days, sunny skies, plant decomposition, heat from the earth and fast-moving water abound on Earth’s surface. A2012 studyestimated that renewable energy sources have the potential to generate 118 times the amount of electricity currently used within the United States.
Economic Benefits of Renewable Energy
Renewable energy generation often works in tandem with more traditional energy sources to promote job growth and more reliable energy production across the nation. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, an 86 percent increase in the number of wind and solar energy related jobs occurred between 2010 and 2014. The U.S. Department of Labor has indicated that average wages for energy-related and other science, technology, engineering or math-related (STEM) jobs are nearly double the average for all other occupations.
从最终用户的角度来看，可再生能源可以提供相对稳定的价格。在初始基础设施投资之后，最可再生能源技术的“燃料”是免费的，可以轻松预测能源产生成本。相比之下，化石燃料和煤炭价格可能会急剧变化。这种变化可能导致最终用户对最终用户的挑战，当价格下降时，产品/公用设施衰退。
Final Thoughts
Overall, many considerations must be accounted for when looking at energy generation options, as each has unique benefits and costs. What is most efficient and economically feasible is likely to differ based on available technology, geographic area, and numerous other factors.
Braun Intertec has been providing consulting services in support of renewable energy projects throughout the Midwest for many years. From initial project siting and permitting all the way through construction and operation of these facilities, Braun Intertec is committed to being a strategic partner for renewable energy projects. For more information on our renewable energy projects or our technical services, contact us at 855.995.4669.