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
More of Today's Solutions
A revived old custom in Italy is helping those in need during the pandemic
In Italy, where the coronavirus has shuttered more than 2 million businesses and left one in every two workers without income, some Italians are ...
Read MoreHungarian scientist uncovers gene-based therapy that could cure blindness
Since 1985, the Körber Foundation in Hamburg has been awarding a prestigious prize to scientists whose work has applied futuristic techniques to physical sciences. ...
Read MoreScientists discover prehistoric dolphin species in landlocked Switzerland
Paleontologists have recently made an extraordinary discovery in landlocked Switzerland: two new species of dolphin dating back to 20 million years ago. Ancient dolphin ...
Read MoreReef Stars revival: innovative solutions to coral reef restoration
Coral reefs, vibrant undersea ecosystems brimming with life, are experiencing an existential crisis. With forecasts indicating that 90 percent of these unique ecosystems may ...
Read More
