Storage Versus Renewables
There is intense debate about the wisdom of diverting resources to develop CO2 capture and storage which might be used alternatively to develop more renewable energy. Considerations to be taken into account are
- The feasibility of a rapid conversion to renewables in the time frame required to limit climate change.
- The potential speed with which deep cuts could be made with capture and storage technology.
- The extra cost of implementing storage would give a competitive advantage to renewables which might be more effective than direct subsidies
- The potential for environmental damage from very large scale implementation of renewables.
- The reduction in energy efficiency of resulting from capture and storage activities which increases reliance on fossil fuel. More efficient or renewable technologies, while not delivering the same deep cuts in emissions certainly help reduce dependency on fossil fuels.
|