The Oil Drum

54 comments on A gentle cough about where electricity comes from

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Boof on September 9, 2006 - 12:26am

The prospect of FSU gas import dependence seems to mortify some European countries. For example both Denmark and Germany now seem to have reached 'peak renewables' in marginal cost terms. According to TOD posters increased coal and nuclear are likely despite earlier pledges to the contrary. Russian gas seems like a poison pill that makes former vegetarians now prefer to eat steak.

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Marotti32 on September 9, 2006 - 1:52am

I cannot see a peak renewables in marginal costs, neither in Denmark, nor in Germany. Just think about the coming offshore wind farms. These are certainly more expensive to build, however they will deliver much more electricity with lower fluctuations. There are many, very huge parks being planned in the North Sea.

Other forms of renewables are almost untapped. Think about the deep geothermal energy to produce electricty. There are several projects going on here in Germany right now. Here we have the opportunity to gain experience in this very elegant form of renewable energy. Which will be as well a new field of work for geologist and drilling companies.

Other renewables will fo as well a significant job. I can see many, many buildings without s solar thermal collector on the roof. There is still a lot of space for it.

The extension of renewables will go on. Higher prices for imported natural gas from Russia will only help to accelerate this process. Markets need some pressure to develop and the best way of pressure are higher prices.

greetings from sunny Berlin, marotti32

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TheTransition on September 9, 2006 - 10:34pm

This article implies that Germany at least needs new coal plants to meet electricity demand over the next 15 years.

http://www.nytimes.com/2006/06/20/business/worldbusiness/20eurocoal.html?ex=1308456000&en=a692e5 0cc3a0de27&ei=5088&partner=rssny

The 8 new plants described will generate 3-4 times the annual production of electricity from Germany's current Wind installations (10 GW peak from memory.)