Science

Stanford study demonstrates 100% renewable US grid, with no blackouts

A study led by Stanford University professor Mark Jacobson has demonstrated that the US energy system running on wind, water and solar, coupled with storage, not only avoids blackouts but lowers energy requirements and consumer costs while creating millions of jobs, improving health, and freeing up land.

The Jacobson-led study conducted with colleagues from Stanford University analysed grid stability under multiple scenarios in which wind, water, and solar energy resources powered 100% of all energy needs in the United States.

The study, published in the journal Renewable Energy, demonstrates a blackout-free energy system under ideal circumstances, and a much reduced risk of blackouts in extreme weather events compared to the current fossil fuel-led energy systems.

The Stanford researchers analysed how to meet continuous energy demand every 30 seconds for two years, running simulations for six individual states: Alaska and Hawaii, both of which are geographically isolated, along with California, Texas, New York, and Florida.

The researchers also analysed the interconnected electricity grid regions in…

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