You'd Really Miss Renewables This Winter If They Weren't Available - CleanTechnica

The article from CleanTechnica highlights the critical role that renewable energy—particularly solar and wind—plays in keeping electricity prices manageable during winter months. Renewables not only help mitigate climate change and reduce health harms compared to fossil fuels, but their cost-effectiveness is the strongest incentive for consumers. Winter electricity markets are prone to price volatility because prices are set by the most expensive power source needed to meet demand; when renewable output drops, reliance on costly fossil fuels spikes prices sharply. Expanding renewable sources like offshore wind and technologies such as heat pumps can help stabilize supply and reduce consumer utility costs. Globally, renewables dominate new electricity capacity additions, with over 90% of 2024’s new generation coming from clean energy, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). The International Energy Agency (IEA) reports that 107 countries have reduced fossil fuel imports for electricity generation, strengthening energy security and economic resilience. However, the U.S. lags behind in renewable deployment due to