Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Department

Environmental Studies

Advisor(s)

Edward Van Buren

Abstract

Since the late 1800s, America’s electrical grid systems have relied primarily upon fossil fuels for sources of electricity. Due to the outdated structural foundations and glaring holes in distribution networks, the existing electrical grids struggle with electricity escaping, and modern issues such as cybersecurity, resilience, and weather-related events associated with climate change. This essay discusses ongoing problems with current electric grid systems and aims at explaining the importance of incorporating renewables as a solution for these problems into a new grid system. In the first chapter, a detailed explanation is provided regarding the current issues present in America's grid systems. The second chapter offers insight into how America built its grid systems and how this old foundation has led to many ongoing problems. The third chapter offers a perspective on the economic impact of renewable energy implementation. More specifically this chapter covers the short-term costs and long-term benefits of renewable investment as well as the amount of potential financial savings from cybersecurity issues, natural events as a result of climate change, and overall maintenance. The fourth chapter explains the socio-political impact of developing a new grid system and how communities across all incomes will participate in this system. The fifth chapter concludes with how renewable energy grid-based policy recommendations will move America toward a future of resiliency and sustainability.

Download

Share

COinS