Both of our “green” democratic candidates were recently heard stumping for “clean” coal technologies! I have two big problems with this: 1. There is no such thing as “clean” coal (see #2), And, 2. We are decades away from clean “coal” technology being widely deployed anyway. In the same amount of time we could deploy an arsenal of solar and wind farms that could give us a similar amount of electricity without the mercury, carbon, and particulate pollution. All the while, keeping our mountains in tact!
“Clean” Coal is a joke — so this cartoon pretty much writes itself…
About Joe Mohr
To be fair, the solar farms would have to be absolutely massive in scope. That and of the solar companies currently trying to get the technology to be adapted, all are experiencing problems ranging from supply to feasibility. Evergreen Solar, Ascent, First Solar, JA Solar, Wafertech, Canadian Solar…There are many competing sets of technologies when it comes to solar, and which is the best or the most cost-effective isn’t clearly understood yet. Solar has its advantages, but it’s time hasn’t quite come.
Wind power, like water power, has some issues. Mainly, wind isn’t always guaranteed. Also, these wind farms need to go in prime locations with consistently good wind currents…and that’s right where a lot of migrating birds like to fly.
Nuclear energy is the 800 lb. elephant in the room you forgot to mention.
Thats one small elephant….