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Renewable Energy Consequences

AP/Toby Talbot

http://www.vpr.net/audio/programs/84/2013/03/vpr-vermont-edition-20130313.mp3

If Vermont wanted to produce 25% of our energy with renewable wind power by 2050, we would have to build turbines covering 90 miles of ridge line. If we wanted to produce 25% of our energy from solar, we'd have to cover the roofs of 40% of our residences with panels and build another 200 solar farms. These numbers come from a new report released by The Wilderness Society that looks at the impacts and consequences of renewable energy sources.

What kind of renewable energy future do we see for our state? How much solar, wind, hydro and biomass do we want to use, and where do we want to build it? If the state is going to meet its greenhouse gas emissions goals, we're going to have to make some tough choices. We'll talk about the report, the numbers, and the choices with Ann Ingerson of The Wilderness Society, and with you.

Post your questions or comments about renewable energy here or email them to vermontedition@vpr.net.

Also,Castleton State College has nearly doubled its student population in the last ten years, while getting less than 10% of its budget from the state. We'll check in with the President of Castleton State College, David Wolk.

Jane Lindholm is the host, executive producer and creator of But Why: A Podcast For Curious Kids. In addition to her work on our international kids show, she produces special projects for Vermont Public. Until March 2021, she was host and editor of the award-winning Vermont Public program Vermont Edition.
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