Does anyone know what percentage of today's electrical power is produced by expendable fuel? an old figure I had was 92%. With the advent of wind and Solar I wondered of the ratios have change? Thanks John

-- Anonymous, February 12, 1998

Answers

Here's the breakedown (1997) from DOE, U.S.:

51% Coal 20% Nuclear 15% Gas 8% Hydro 3% Oil (expensive!!) 3% Other (including alternative sources such as wind and solar)

Hope that helps. I think that equates to 97% 'expendable' fuel (non-renewable energy sources). Renewable energy sources are extremely expensive (greater than $.25/KwHr), which has certainly factored into their lack of contribution to the overall energy mix.

-- Anonymous, February 15, 1998

Wind power

Between July and October last year, I was fortunate enough to be visiting a number of power stations in regional Western Australia. One town had a couple of wind farms, which on a good day supplied only 19% of the town's demand for power.

The communication and control of these farms was "simple" enough, one PC a few modems, radio communication and some industrial controls. These were all at the base of the wind turbines.

What I found interesting was that a number of processors were located in the actual turbines themselves (the little housing behind those enormous propellers). These processors control the autonomous operation of the wind turbine. If these were to fail in their operation, the turbine might not be able to feather its propellers in high winds or may not be able to govern or regulate its output, etc. etc. etc.

Please do not think that just because these are renewable or natural resource technologies are not at risk to the Year 2000 issue as are fossil fuel power station.

Wind and solar power generators only supplement the existing fossil fuel power station. When the wind blows or the sun shines we do save an incredible amount of fuel though.

Kim Smith

-- Anonymous, February 18, 1998

I would like to add to the questions on renewable energy. I want to build or buy my own energy source. Where would be the best place to by the parts and/or instructions? One not dependent on computers at all...willie

-- Anonymous, June 17, 1998

A good starting point for 'off the grid' info is www.homepower.com

Hope this helps!

-- Anonymous, June 17, 1998