Clean energy future of Western states depends on conservation, renewables and smart grid, says report

Western states could generate big economic and public health dividends by more aggressively pursuing a low-carbon, clean-energy strategy that relies on renewable energy, conservation and smart grid technologies, according to a new report from the Grid West Group http://www.cleanenergyvision.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/WG2050_final_rev082211.pdf .

The report looks out 40 years and compares the economic, environmental and public health outcomes in 2050 of two electricity industry trajectories. The "business-as-usual" approach continues heavy investment in cleaner coal and natural gas plants, while a "clean energy vision" relies on efficiency, distributed renewable generation and an upgraded electrical grid.

By Ted Sickinger, The Oregonian

Full Story: http://www.oregonlive.com/business/index.ssf/2011/08/conservation_smart_grids_and_r.html