In the energy business, there
seems to be a couple of widely divergent views on the road ahead. One
promotes the decentralized approach, placing smaller power plants near
the user. This attractive idea puts solar on your rooftop, fuel cells
and gas turbines within industrial parks, thus minimizing the use of the
transmission grid. International supply disruptions won't affect you.
The utilities and engineering
firms that build large plants argue for the economies-of-scale which reduce
costs for all, plus offering better stability and reliability via the
interconnected network. The differences are almost philosophical —
pitting the idea of energy independence vs. interdependence.
As in many debates, there is
usually a bit of good on both sides — and oftentimes the ideal solution
incorporates the best of both. For years, GENI has been researching this
unified theme; that energy cooperation fosters increased trade and the
opportunity to rapidly expand the renewable energy sector.
Today, this linking of power grids and tapping of local and remote
renewables is growing on every continent. The recent meeting of the
ASEAN Energy Ministers reaffirmed their commitment — "An
integrated ASEAN
energy network will not only significantly enhance economic integration
within the regions but also solve energy security."
Halfway around the world, the Wall Street Journal is reporting
that the growth of solar and wind energy will double in the US and Canada.
It states that the global
renewable sector is poised for explosive growth — 9.2% compounded
annually. This compares to 2.4% growth in fossil fuels. Most of these
renewables are being connected into regional grids and sold via
your local utility.
We have pushed the linking
of renewable energy resources for a decade. It is the highest priority
solution of the World Game simulation developed by visionary engineer
Buckminster Fuller. Now, our goal is to accelerate this cooperative development
in Southeast Asia, and accelerate the renewable transition in North America.
We must work harder extend these energy services to 2 billion people who
have none. Your financial support continues to make this initiative possible.
Thank you for making the difference.
Please vote
with your dollars by investing in the sustainability of our planet.
