A new study shows that the United States could shutter coal-fired power plants by 2030, maintain a steady power supply—and save billions of dollars. The country has more than enough clean renewable energy capacity to replace the coal-fired power stations. The challenge: How to move electricity generated by the sun or wind over long distances without losing too much of it in the process. The study offers an existing solution: High-voltage direct current can carry power across long distances more efficiently than alternating current, the standard power transmission mode in the US. Utilities could add direct-current infrastructure to alternating-current transmission lines over the next 15 years as part of planned updates and upgrades without breaking the bank, according to the study.
US can make fast shift to clean energy and save billions, new study says
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