The Renewable Energy Debate

 

 

Whether in the form of solar power, wind power, hydropower, geothermal, or biomass fuel, it has been proven that renewable energy is possible. By using natural resources, it is possible to generate electricity and other power at a much lower cost while helping clean up the earth’s environment. Although renewable energy has become an important part of life, benefiting individuals and companies all over the world, there remains some controversy, which is the topic of this article. Because there are some renewable energy debates, we felt it only fair to cover potential negative aspects along with the long list of benefits.

 

Environment and Legal Issues

 

Although renewable energy is extremely important to the environment, there are several legal issues that experts face. It is important to understand that environmental laws exist so creating any type of renewable energy business is not something done on a whim but with great planning and adherence to laws. Many of the issues on the table can be overcome relatively easy while others are somewhat more challenging.

 

For instance, the most common types of environment and legal issues currently being addressed include air and water quality, wetlands, agriculture, biodiversity, species protection, waste management, and even right-to-know laws. In addition, once land on which a solar or wind farm has been built, the land itself has to be prepared. That means in some cases dealing with things such as cleanup of any hazardous materials, regulation, transportation, and so on.

 

One of the newest legal issues pertaining to renewable energy business is called the “green law.” The purpose of this law is to conserve the environment not only for today’s society but also future generations by providing detailed information about green initiatives, sustainability strategies, and various renewable energy sources. The primary benefits associated with renewable energy to include lowering the cost of living and improving the environment can only happen if laws are created, regulated, and enforced.

 

Wind Farm Debates

 

The number of wind farms has increased dramatically and for good reason although debates exist. A single wind turbine is capable of generating approximately 5 megawatts while an entire farm of turbines has the ability to produce between 1.5 and 2.5 megawatts. While wind farms are found around the world, the majority are located within the US with experts believing that by 2034, one-fifth of the country’s power will come from this type of renewable energy. Obviously, wind is clean and free, which makes it an ideal solutions.

 

Although there is exceptional value associated with a wind farm, the primary debate has to do with another environmental issue, killing of birds and bats that sometimes fly into the turbines and die. With this, some environmentalists and nature lovers are concerned that certain ecosystems are being destroyed in exchange for the production of renewable energy using wind. Another debate is that when the wind blows, these turbines are exceptional producers but on days without wind, they simply cannot produce. Now, new technologies are being developed whereby more energy would be stored, which would help maintain stored energy and make up for lost days without wind.

 

In addition to these two wind farm debates, a small group of people simply do not like the massive turbines. Instead of viewing them as energy producers that save money and support a healthier planet, these people see the gigantic turbines as eyesores that clutter the landscape and deplete land’s value. Debates for this type of thing are always going to exist but weighing the pros and cons, it is easy to see that a wind farm is invaluable.

 

Longevity Issues

 

The last thing we wanted to touch on pertaining to renewable energy has to do with longevity issues. It is important to understand that although the sun, wind, and water are free, there are expenses involved for operation. In addition, solar systems, wind farms, and hydropower systems must be maintained and updated due to wear and tear over time. Although a few obstacles need to be dealt with long-term, the benefits far outweigh any challenges. Overall, benefits of renewable energy are much greater than current challenges but of course, as with any new and growing technology, once these issues are resolved others will likely develop.