One of the Nat Geo articles that I found to be stimulating was looking at how we as humans gain, store and move our energy requirements, with a particular focus on electricity. There was an idea introduced that we should improve our Grid systems so that we waste less energy on the movement of electricity. This wastage can in some cases lead to blackouts and mask the need for repair or maintenance of the grid. The article suggested a smarter grid system with real-time feed-backs allowing self regulation of the grid.
The requirements for the new grid being: Improved transmission lines for movement of electricity over larger areas i.e. taking account of energy generation by green sources in remote locations. Improved large scale energy storage systems. On a local level using smart monitoring systems to deliver energy at levels and times when most required. Use of locally produced renewable energy to be stored and used locally. At home further use of smart metering and small scale energy production such as solar panels and small wind turbines.. I haven’t studied the ideas in enough detail to make a critical judgement, but on a gut instinct level it seems all very interesting and it sounds good, but will it happen. I do like the idea of local communities being responsible for their
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