RENEWABLE ENERGY
As of 2005 only 2.3% of the United States' electric energy needs came from renewable (non-hydro) sources. In Washington state, we rely much on hydro-electric power. According to the Washington State Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development, Washington State Electric Fuel Mix (2006) was 69% hydro, 17% coal, 9% natural gas, 5% nuclear, 1 wind and 1% biomass, landfill gas, and others. Puget Sound Energy, the largest electric utility supplier in Washington had a fuel mix of 45% hydro, 34% coal, 17% natural gas, 2% wind, 1% nuclear, and others including landfill gas and biomass at 1%. With the passing of Initiative 937 in the November 2006 election, all electricity utilities must meet a minimum of 15% renewable sources by 2020.
If we are to make meaningful progress in reducing the emissions of carbon dioxide, far greater reliance must be made on energy efficiency measures and clean energy technologies. Fortunately, the United States is extremely rich in renewable energy resources. A study undertaken by the American Solar Energy Society shows that energy generated from the sun, wind, geothermal and biomass sources has the potential to provide 40% of the country's electricity needs projected for 2030. Combined with effective energy efficiency measures, the country can potentially reduce its carbon emissions by about 1,200 million metric tons a year, enough to begin to reverse the effects of global warming.
Whether your concern is about global warming, the effects of peak oil, or seeking energy security, renewable energy offers benefits that fossil fuel-based and nuclear energy sources does not. Alternative energy technologies which are clean, reliable, renewable and economically beneficial are here today. Many of these technologies are applicable and viable in the Pacific Northwest such as solar, wind, biomass and microhydro. Tidal power is rapidly being explored for the Puget Sound region and its environmental impact is under study.
