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Stimulating Renewable Energy:
A "Green Power" Initiative
Joel Darmstadter |
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Although still a relatively minor player, renewable energy is nearing the point at which, on both technological and commercial grounds, it can begin to play a significantly expanded role in the nation’s energy mix. |
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Joel Darmstadter
on Stimulating
Renewable Energy
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The electric power sector, which currently relies on renewables to generate just 2 percent of its output, is particularly well suited to phase in the use of renewables as a complement to fossil, nuclear, and large hydro resources in the production of electricity. |
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To that end, Mr. President, I recommend that your administration and the new Congress support enactment of a national Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS).
Such a measure, containing explicit safeguards to limit cost increases, would require the use of minimum shares of renewables in electric generation over the coming years. |
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A federal program would build on such efforts in more than 15 states. But, through a geographically diverse trading system of renewable "credits," it would tap the economic efficiency of a nationwide marketplace. |
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Joel Darmstadter studies energy resources and policy, particularly in their relation to economic development. His professional activities have included congressional testimony and participation in National Academy of Sciences studies.
Chapter 4. Slaking Our Thirst for Oil |
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All Policy Recommendations in New Approaches on Energy and the Environment are available for complimentary download from each chapter's webpage. (Copyright © 2004 by Resources for the Future.) Use of these chapters is for personal use only. Contents may not be duplicated or retransmitted by print, electronic, or other means without written permission of the publisher. To purchase a printed copy of the book, click on the button below. |
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