How can CPS Energy show that solar and wind energy cost so much more than fossil-fuel energy if solar and wind energy have no fuel costs?
CPS Energy continually compares all energy costs, and both solar and wind continue to cost more than fossil-fuel energy sources. For renewables, although there are no fuel costs, ongoing costs include costs for transmission to get electricity from the source to where it is used and maintenance costs for the equipment. The capital costs of construction for solar and wind sources are also expensive. Another reason renewables are more costly than other resources is that CPS Energy has to provide backup sources of electricity if the wind stops blowing or if the sun is obscured by clouds or darkness. Already CPS Energy has installed four natural gas-fired peaking units with quick-start capability, and another four such units are scheduled for completion later this year.
Related Questions
- Some claim that 10 years from now solar will be cheaper. Does CPS Energy account for the cost of solar energy coming down in the long term?
- How can CPS Energy show that solar and wind energy cost so much more than fossil-fuel energy if solar and wind energy have no fuel costs?
- Is solar technology advanced enough to be cost effective?
