Power Needs:
Current use is 247 billion kilowatt hours (TWh) of electricity x 2 for population growth x 0.75 for energy use cuts =
370.5 billion TWh
Current use is 5,882.82 kg of oil equivalent x 2 for population growth x 0.75 for energy cuts =
8824.23 kg of oil equivalent
We plan to cut our energy use by 25% by 2050, and even further in the years afterwards by using the plans for smart growth previously identified. By following smart growth ideas and minimizing usage through better knowledge and regulation of the public's use, we will be able to reduce energy usage.
Current use is 247 billion kilowatt hours (TWh) of electricity x 2 for population growth x 0.75 for energy use cuts =
370.5 billion TWh
Current use is 5,882.82 kg of oil equivalent x 2 for population growth x 0.75 for energy cuts =
8824.23 kg of oil equivalent
We plan to cut our energy use by 25% by 2050, and even further in the years afterwards by using the plans for smart growth previously identified. By following smart growth ideas and minimizing usage through better knowledge and regulation of the public's use, we will be able to reduce energy usage.
Power Sources:
- Hydroelectric Power - Dams are built to control fast flowing rivers so that the water can be used to turn turbines to generate electricity. At times when the energy is not needed, the water can be pumped back up to the storage reservoir.
- Tidal Power - Barrages can be built across estuaries to use tidal flows to generate electricity.
- Solar Power - The sun's warmth can be used to heat water and buildings. Solar cells can convert sunlight into electricity.
- Biomass Power - Biomass is the oldest of the renewable energy sources and, in Ireland, its main use is as wood fuel. Another source of Biomass energy comes from the production of bio-gas. Municipal solid waste, agricultural waste and sewage sludge break down to produce Methane. This methane can be collected in tanks and burned to produce heat.
- Geothermal Power - Water is pumped through hot rocks under the ground. The hot water can be used to heat buildings and any steam produced can be used to generate electricity. Low temperature geothermal energy, found in Ireland, can be tapped using heat pump technology.
- Wind Power - Tall wind turbines on wind farms can use the power of the wind to generate electricity. Eleven wind farms are now operational in Ireland. These have a combined capacity of 68 MW - enough electricity for over 44,000 homes.
Positives and Negatives of Power Options:
Hydroelectric Positives:
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Hydroelectric Negatives:
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Tidal Positives:
Solar Positives:
Biomass Positives:
Geothermal Positives:
Wind Positives:
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Tidal Negatives:
Solar Negatives:
Biomass Negatives:
Geothermal Negatives:
Wind Negatives:
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