Technology:

Hybrid Energy Systems Could Boost Renewable Use in US (SmartMeters)

Old, new and hybrid solar-geothermal Stillwater power plants, Nevada, USA.

A new report urges the development of hybrid systems in which one form of renewable energy, such as solar, is available while the other, such as wind, is minimal.

Up to now the primary drawback of implementing alternative energy systems was too much variability. If there is no wind or no sunshine, an additional energy system has to be available to compensate.

Energy policy analyst Anna Kelly notes, “Geothermal is being paired with solar; wind and solar with lithium-ion batteries; and wind and biodiesel with batteries. By helping to address the price issue, renewable energy is being produced in hybrid systems by real, private companies that are making real money.”

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