Usually we speak of the benefits of interconnecting energy grids so that everyone will enjoy the use of electricity. The grid provides the "freeway for electrons" from generators to customers, and these transmission lines frequently cross time zones and political boundaries. This in turn allows for the tapping of renewable energy resources that are often in remote locations.

The Energy Grid can also deliver the electrical energy to transition the automotive industry from gasoline engines to electric or fuel cell propulsion systems. The present-day internal combustion engine is only 5% efficient and causes about 1/3 of the global carbon dioxide emissions. Our cars are the primary reason that the world economy is addicted to petroleum.

How can the Energy Grid provide both propulsion and solve pollution? First, any pure electric vehicle needs to be charged, and this is usually done overnight with cheaper base-load power. Then, as fuel cells require hydrogen, the Energy Grid can provide the electricity to electrolyze water (breaking apart H20). When this hydrogen is burned or used in fuel cells, the by-product is clean, non-polluting steam!

One way to change the world is by your choice of transportation. The next time you purchase a car, please consider an electric, hybrid (gas/electric) or fuel cell vehicle. The enclosed article from Forbes magazine indicates that industry is getting the message. The choices we make today influence what automakers build in the future.

Please vote with your dollars by investing in the sustainability of our planet.