The U.S. state of California has
long been a leader in hydroelectricity production, but in 2013, a major drought
dropped the state to its lowest levels of hydroelectricity production in over
two decades. But, how did they manage to keep the power flowing without water?
The state’s commitment to clean energy and a never-die spirit keep pushing them
through with hardly a worry.
Even though
the drought has hit agriculture and water tables hard, the state can lean on
its good planning, natural gas, and newly introduced renewable energy sources
to keep the lights on. With prior experience in energy crises, California
regulations do well to prepare for even the worst-case scenarios; so, spirits
are high.
The boost
in renewable energy programs, like solar and wind power and even geothermal
energy, has helped ease the burden of the drought. These new initiatives,
specifically, have bolstered the energy-generation capacity; the pressure
caused by the lack of hydroelectricity in the time of drought has amped up the
importance and efficiency of these relatively new projects. However, sunshine and wind cannot be called
upon on a whim; natural gas has stepped in to provide the energy when the
renewable resources cannot.
Recent rain
and snowstorms have hinted that the drought may be on its way out. However, the
precipitation totals are incredibly lower than average, leaving a long way to
go before danger is at bay and before energy costs can remain low. Experts say
that even though the recent storms have brought much-needed relief, it may take
up to a year to see real recovery. The state is hopeful that despite the
drought, if it is here to stay, they can remain committed to clean and
renewable energy.
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