Wind and solar energy—two of the most popular
sources of renewable energy—are sometimes touted
as the answer to the world’s energy challenges.
Some advocates of these energy sources want us
to believe they can solve a plethora of problems,
ranging from avoiding the disastrous 2010 oil leak
in the Gulf region to materially reducing global
climate change. Wind and solar energy are also
routinely promoted with the promise of green jobs,
which will lead to a green technology revolution
while improving the environment—and making
us “energy independent” to boot. But how well do
wind and solar energy solutions actually perform on
these promises? Let’s take a rational loo
Wind and solar energy—two of the most popular
sources of renewable energy—are sometimes touted
as the answer to the world’s energy challenges.
Some advocates of these energy sources want us
to believe they can solve a plethora of problems,
ranging from avoiding the disastrous 2010 oil leak
in the Gulf region to materially reducing global
climate change. Wind and solar energy are also
routinely promoted with the promise of green jobs,
which will lead to a green technology revolution
while improving the environment—and making
us “energy independent” to boot. But how well do
wind and solar energy solutions actually perform on
these promises? Let’s take a rational loo