Rob Leading USGBC-NJ Sustainable Tour, Giant Stadium
While practicing architecture and construction management for over 20 years, I had learned to understand the devil is in the details. I would like to apply this concept to today’s blog focusing on clean energy transmission.
Traditional power lines move electricity in one direction, from power plant to homes or businesses. The integrating of rooftop solar and solar farms requires utilities to upgrade equipment that accommodates 2-way current.
Here is another interesting detail! All utility power grids are not created equal. The early adopters of rooftop solar tend to be in wealthier communities, where utility companies have upgraded the transmission lines to carry the 2-way current! Lower income communities, where rooftop solar is not a common practice, are left behind.
If we are going to really decarbonize our built environment and meet our climate goals set by the Paris Accord Agreement, we must level the playing field and treat all people equally. We need every person on this planet to have the ability to participate in this new green economy. All power lines must be treated equally, allowing for clean renewable energy to flow freely to all people, giving them the ability to charge electric vehicles at home, implement electric heatpumps and appliances within their residences and businesses.