Cruel irony: Do renewable power plants threaten their surrounding environment?

Do the potential benefits of plants that use renewable sources such as wind and solar to generate energy outweigh the environmental damage that could be caused to make way for them? Californians are grappling with that very question as the state moves ahead with Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's plan to have utility companies generate one-third of the state's energy from renewable sources by 2020; today renewables account for 12 percent of their output. Full Story »

Posted by Derek Hawkins
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Posted by: Posted by Derek Hawkins - Mar 26, 2009 - 7:59 AM PDT
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Edited by: Derek Hawkins - Mar 26, 2009 - 7:59 AM PDT

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3.5
by Patricia L'Herrou - Mar. 26, 2009

i wish the writer had written more discussing the question of the title not as much about the one example he uses in the california desert. presumably as the nation comes to grips with renewable and alternate energy sources, competing environmental priorities will have to be made. in this case it would seem that finding a solution where both concerns can be met is possible.

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3.7
by Fabrice Florin - Mar. 26, 2009

Informative overview on the challenges faced by of California, as it aims to increase its renewable energy production without jeopardizing its natural environment. This short article provides factual evidence from many credible sources (see link). A good introduction to this timely issue.

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3.8
by Derek Hawkins - Mar. 26, 2009

This captures several sides of the debate over how California can move forward in green energy development. Several recent and relevant news items are highlighted in this helpful analysis.

California’s effort reflects the fed’s own enthusiasm for green energy—the economic stimulus package is loaded with $59 billion in energy and in tax ... More »

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3.4
by Glenn LaBauve - Mar. 26, 2009
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3.9
by Lee Barry - Mar. 27, 2009

Scientific American is a storied publication, and one can safely assume its accuracy. I like it when reporters play devil's advocate on popular issues. With deployment of any new technology, you have to think 50 years into the future and contemplate the possible ramifications.

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  • Feinstein wants desert swath off-limits to solar, wind projects

    In a move that could pit environmentalists and alternative energy industries against each other, the senator wants hundreds of thousands of acres in California designated as a ...
    Posted by Derek Hawkins
    3.5
  • Solar Power: Eco-Friendly or Environmental Blight?

    California wants to run on sunshine. The state is forcing utility companies to provide 20% of their output by way of solar power and other forms of renewable energy by 2010. ...
    Posted by Fabrice Florin
    3.7