Generating Electric Power in the Pacific Northwest

📖 The Scoop

The Pacific Northwest faces some critical energy issues over the next 20 years. There is significant uncertainty about energy supplies, energy prices, and the implications of competitive energy markets. As energy demands continue to rise, it is important for the states in the region to understand the risks and opportunities of different energy supply and demand options. This report examines the implications of using alternative power-generation technologies to meet future energy demands in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. Three scenarios are evaluated: (1) replacing 20 percent of new natural-gas-fired generating capacity with energy efficiency and/or renewable-energy generation (wind and/or solar power); (2) replacing the electricity produced by the lower Snake River dams with combinations of natural-gas-fueled generation, energy efficiency, and wind power; and (3) replacing the new electricity that will be needed by the most energy-intensive industries (primarily aluminum smelters) with energy efficiency. It is concluded that the electricity portfolio could be diversified with energy efficiency and renewable-energy sources such as wind and solar power without much impact on the economy, either positive or negative. Diversification could provide a way to hedge against future volatility in natural-gas prices and supply and hydroelectric capability, while also providing other benefits, both environmental and economic, to the region.

Genre: Science / Energy (fancy, right?)