Our society is now shifting away from fossil fuels toward a new renewable-energy paradigm. Such a paradigm shift occurs “when the usual way of thinking about something is replaced by a new and different way.” We are creating a sustainable and low-carbon energy system from nonfossil fuel sources that produce little pollution. As the climate warms, our urgent mission is to rapidly “electrify” our society by shifting to power from the sun, the wind and water.
Around the Monadnock region, we see inklings of this new energy paradigm. Solar panels are being installed on residences and businesses. Electric cars are joining the highway commute. What effect might this profound change in power sourcing have upon our lives here in southwestern New Hampshire? Here are some thoughts…
In the year 2030, a healthy and resilient Monadnock region is thriving in the emerging sustainable energy economy…..
Solar panels on home and business roofs are commonly sighted. Larger community and commercial solar installations are spotted here or there, mostly located on old landfill sites or marginal lands. Some farmers work their fields bordered with ground mounted solar arrays. A few large wind generators are sited on more remote, windy highlands. Small hydro power generation continues to contribute cheap, clean electricity to the local grid.
Of course, not all the needed energy is generated locally. Much electricity is still purchased from outside the Monadnock region. But utility-scale electricity from renewable sources is now cheaper than from oil, gas, coal and nuclear. And emerging offshore wind energy from the Atlantic seaboard contributes to a robust green electricity market. Although some aging fossil fuel power plants are still turned on now and then, most utility consumers choose green energy from renewable sources.
Some forward thinking towns have set up “resiliency centers” by adding solar power arrays and “smart” battery storage units to the local firehouse, school or town facility. When the erratic weather takes the power out, these centers provide a lighted and heated refuge powered by clean energy. A few places have gone even further by setting up neighborhood microgrids intended to keep the local power flowing during a large scale grid outage.
The novelty of electric vehicles (EVs) is fading, but the enthusiasm remains. Many new car designs are offered and the new batteries are very efficient. New EVs are priced at, or below, the cost of comparable gasoline vehicles. Used EVs are widely available, reliable and affordable. Small electric powered utility vans and work trucks are quite popular with businesses and contractors. Electric vehicle charging stations have sprung up in many towns and along major highways, though the majority of the growing number of EV owners charge mostly at home or work. The first local electric buses have been providing public transport for a couple of years.
Most of the buildings have been retrofitted to improve energy efficiency and conservation. These tight and well-insulated buildings now use efficient air source heat pumps and wood pellet stoves to meet their small heating requirements. Innovative, low-cost loan programs provide funds for building energy retrofits with the costs offset by long term energy savings. New energy efficiency businesses have sprung up and additional skilled jobs have been created. The money spent on these building renovations and upgrades circulates in the regional economy. Cooperation between public entities and nonprofit groups continues to provide programs and assistance for weatherizing and renewable energy retrofits for those in need.
The high performance standards now required for new buildings result in significant cost savings; smaller heating systems are required and less power is consumed. Much new construction is now coupled with on site renewable energy systems, making many buildings “net-zero” users of grid electricity.
A culture of sustainability infuses the Monadnock business community. Companies with the foresight to install renewable energy systems and weatherize their buildings have reaped beneficial outcomes and their stories are known, respected and emulated. Young people are drawn to jobs in these socially responsible companies and stay on, inspired by the community values and outdoor setting of the Monadnock region.
The vital partnership of civic, academic, business, nonprofit and private individuals that guided this energy transformation remains active, with much yet to do. Some difficult issues continue to require special attention including funding barriers, retraining of those displaced from fossil fuel jobs and weatherizing rental buildings. The shift to the new energy economy goes on……
We live in a time of great change and great doubt. But I gain comfort and direction from a specific vision of a hopeful future. And that vision compels and empowers me to take action to bring it to reality.
What is your vision for the future of the Monadnock region? Would you share it with me sometime?
Peter Wotowiec is a member of the Clean Energy Team of the Monadnock Progressive Alliance and of the Sierra Club. He recently took part in a year-long campaign that resulted in the Keene City Council voting to adopt a 100 percent Sustainable Energy Resolution. A carpenter, farmer, naturalist and community volunteer, Wotowiec lives in Langdon. He plans to join Saturday’s Community Conversations: Greenerborough Edition at ConVal High School in Peterborough.