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California Just Debunked a Big Myth About Renewable Energy

Summary

 A new study reveals that California provided 100% of its electricity demand with renewable energy for up to 10 hours on 98 of 116 days last year, demonstrating the reliability of renewables. Battery storage played a critical role, storing solar and wind energy for nighttime use and helping reduce the state’s fossil fuel reliance by 40%. While renewable energy lowers electricity costs in other states, California’s high rates are driven by wildfire-related utility costs. The state’s advancements in solar, wind, and battery technology challenge misconceptions about renewables and prove their ability to support increased energy demand, including from electric vehicles and heat pumps.

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