wind energy
Newsletter
Credit: Nicholas Doherty/Unsplash
Glauconite disrupts offshore wind plans
A green mineral called glauconite is causing problems for President Biden's offshore wind initiatives by complicating the installation of wind turbines.
In short:
- Glauconite forms a sticky, clay-like layer when disturbed, obstructing the installation of monopiles, which are essential for offshore wind turbines.
- At least four offshore wind projects in New England and New York have been affected by this mineral, threatening their efficiency and economic viability.
- The U.S. Geological Survey and wind developers are researching the extent of glauconite deposits and potential solutions to this issue.
Key quote:
“Our administration has been laser focused on making what many of us thought impossible — a thriving and sustainable domestic offshore wind industry from coast to coast.”
— Interior Secretary Deb Haaland
Why this matters:
Glauconite is hampering efforts to meet ambitious renewable energy targets. The discovery of glauconite in key offshore wind areas also sparks concerns about the ecological impact of extensive drilling and construction activities. Balancing the urgent need for renewable energy with the preservation of marine ecosystems is a delicate task. Scientists and environmental advocates stress the importance of thorough impact assessments and the development of eco-friendly installation methods.
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Credit: Jakub Junek/Big Stock Photo
UK: Nigel Farage to run for MP, pledging to oppose climate policies
Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, has announced his candidacy for MP, emphasizing his opposition to climate action and net zero policies.
In short:
- Nigel Farage is standing for MP and will lead Reform UK, succeeding Richard Tice.
- Farage has consistently opposed climate action, calling for a referendum on the UK's net zero emissions target.
- Reform UK's anti-climate policies reflect Farage's views, including skepticism of climate science and support for fossil fuels.
Key quote:
“I think wind energy is the biggest collective economic insanity I’ve seen in my entire life. I’ve never seen anything more stupid, more illogical, or more irrational.”
— Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK
Why this matters:
Farage's candidacy and leadership of Reform UK could amplify anti-climate policies in Parliament, challenging the UK's climate commitments. This stance contrasts with public support for renewable energy and climate action, potentially influencing future environmental policies.
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Credit: Sander Weeteling/Unsplash
Trump's return could severely impact Biden's wind power initiatives
A potential Trump presidency poses a significant threat to the progress of the offshore wind industry and clean energy transition.
In short:
- Trump's previous presidency saw a stagnation in offshore wind development, raising concerns about future setbacks.
- His criticism of wind power, including unfounded health claims and economic impacts, could hinder clean energy progress.
- The Biden administration's efforts to boost offshore wind projects face potential reversal under Trump's influence.
Key quote:
“If you have a windmill anywhere near your house, congratulations your house just went down 75 percent in value.”
— Donald Trump, 2020 speech
Why this matters:
Trump's potential return to office could dramatically alter the course of the U.S.'s energy future, impacting efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to sustainable energy sources.
Be sure to read Peter Dykstra’s 2022 piece: Headwinds remain for clean energy
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Credit: Gerry Machen/Flickr
Solar power's unstoppable rise: a new dawn in global energy
In a groundbreaking study, scientists assert that solar energy has reached a pivotal tipping point, ensuring its rapid and irreversible global proliferation.
In short:
- The study predicts that solar energy, alongside wind power, will become the predominant electricity sources within the next two decades, outpacing all other forms of energy.
- Key factors driving this shift include technological advancements, cost reductions, and significant investment increases in solar energy deployment, especially in India and China.
- However, challenges such as grid resilience, financial accessibility, unstable mineral supply chains, and resistance from traditional industries could impede solar energy's full potential.
Key quote:
"Our analysis establishes quantitative empirical evidence, from current and historical data trends, that a solar energy tipping point is likely to have passed."
— Study authors
Visit EHN's energy section for more top news about energy, climate and health.
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Photo by Reegan Fraser on Unsplash
How to build a wind farm off the coast of New York
South Fork Wind, the first large-scale offshore wind farm to supply electricity to U.S. consumers, may have more company one day. For now, see how the construction is wrapping up.
Photo by Thomas Reaubourg on Unsplash
The race to fix clean energy's waste problem
While wind electricity is clean, this green industry has a waste problem. Now there's a race to solve it.
Newsletter
Photo by Peter Beukema on Unsplash
Northeast states double down on building America's wind market, despite setbacks
General Electric’s giant wind turbine facility is on track, aided by New York state support.
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