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mariacallous · 5 months ago

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What would you want to tell the next U.S. president? FP asked nine thinkers from around the world to write a letter with their advice for him or her.

Dear Madam or Mr. President,

Congratulations on your election as president of the United States. You take office at a moment of enormous consequence for a world directly impacted by the twin challenges of energy security and climate change.

Democrats and Republicans disagree on many aspects of energy and climate policy. Yet your administration has the chance to chart a policy path forward that unites both parties around core areas of agreement to advance the U.S. national interest.

First, all should agree that climate change is real and worsening. The escalating threat of climate change is increasingly evident to anyone walking the streets of Phoenix in the summer, buying flood insurance in southern Florida, farming rice in Vietnam, or laboring outdoors in Pakistan. This year will almost certainly surpass 2023 as the warmest year on record.

Second, just as the energy revolution that made the United States the world’s largest oil and gas producer strengthened it economically and geopolitically, so will ensuring U.S. leadership in clean energy technologies enhance the country’s geostrategic position. In a new era of great-power competition, China’s dominance in certain clean energy technologies—such as batteries and cobalt, lithium, graphite, and other critical minerals needed for clean energy products��threatens America’s economic competitiveness and the resilience of its energy supply chains. China’s overcapacity in manufacturing relative to current and future demand undermines investments in the United States and other countries and distorts demand signals that allow the most innovative and efficient firms to compete in the global market.

Third, using less oil in our domestic economy reduces our vulnerability to global oil supply disruptions, such as conflict in the Middle East or attacks on tankers in the Red Sea. Even with the surge in U.S. oil production, the price of oil is set in the global market, so drivers feel the pain of oil price shocks regardless of how much oil the United States imports. True energy security comes from using less, not just producing more.

Fourth, energy security risks extend beyond geopolitics and require investing adequately in domestic energy supply to meet changing circumstances. Today, grid operators and regulators are increasingly warning that the antiquated U.S. electricity system, already adjusting to handle rising levels of intermittent solar and wind energy, is not prepared for growing electricity demand from electric cars, data centers, and artificial intelligence. These reliability concerns were evident when an auction this summer set a price nine times higher than last year’s to be paid by the nation’s largest grid operator to power generators that ensure power will be available when needed. A reliable and affordable power system requires investments in grids as well as diverse energy resources, from cheap but intermittent renewables to storage to on-demand power plants.

Fifth, expanding clean energy sectors in the rest of the world is in the national interest because doing so creates economic opportunities for U.S. firms, diversifies global energy supply chains away from China, and enhances U.S. soft power in rapidly growing economies. (In much the same way, the Marshall Plan not only rebuilt a war-ravaged Europe but also advanced U.S. economic interests, countered Soviet influence, and helped U.S. businesses.) Doing so is especially important in rising so-called middle powers, such as Brazil, India, or Saudi Arabia, that are intent on keeping their diplomatic options open and aligning with the United States or China as it suits them transactionally.

To prevent China from becoming a superpower in rapidly growing clean energy sectors, and thereby curbing the benefits the United States derives from being such a large oil and gas producer, your administration should increase investments in research and development for breakthrough clean energy technologies and boost domestic manufacturing of clean energy. Toward these ends, your administration should quickly finalize outstanding regulatory guidance to allow companies to access federal incentives. Your administration should also work with the other side of the aisle to provide the market with certainty that long-term tax incentives for clean energy deployment—which have bipartisan support and have already encouraged historic levels of private investment—will remain in place. Finally, your administration should work with Congress to counteract the unfair competitive advantage that nations such as China receive by manufacturing industrial products with higher greenhouse gas emissions. Such a carbon import tariff, as proposed with bipartisan support, should be paired with a domestic carbon fee to harmonize the policy with that of other nations—particularly the European Union’s planned carbon border adjustment mechanism.

Your ability to build a strong domestic industrial base in clean energy will be aided by sparking more domestic clean energy use. This is already growing quickly as market forces respond to rapidly falling costs. Increasing America’s ability to produce energy is also necessary to maintain electricity grid reliability and meet the growing needs of data centers and AI. To do so, your administration should prioritize making it easier to build energy infrastructure at scale, which today is the greatest barrier to boosting U.S. domestic energy production. On average, it takes more than a decade to build a new high-voltage transmission line in the United States, and the current backlog of renewable energy projects waiting to be connected to the power grid is twice as large as the electricity system itself. It takes almost two decades to bring a new mine online for the metals and minerals needed for clean energy products, such as lithium and copper.

The permitting reform bill recently negotiated by Sens. Joe Manchin and John Barrasso is a good place to start, but much more needs to be done to reform the nation’s permitting system—while respecting the need for sound environmental reviews and the rights of tribal communities. In addition, reforming the way utilities operate in the United States can increase the incentives that power companies have not just to build new infrastructure but to use existing infrastructure more efficiently. Such measures include deploying batteries to store renewable energy and rewiring old transmission lines with advanced conductors that can double the amount of power they move.

Grid reliability will also require more electricity from sources that are available at all times, known as firm power. Your administration should prioritize making it easier to construct power plants with advanced nuclear technology—which reduce costs, waste, and safety concerns—and to produce nuclear power plant fuel in the United States. Doing so also benefits U.S. national security, as Russia is building more than one-third of new nuclear reactors around the world to bolster its geostrategic influence. While Russia has been the leading exporter of reactors, China has by far the most reactors under construction at home and is thus poised to play an even bigger role in the international market going forward. The United States also currently imports roughly one-fifth of its enriched uranium from Russia. To counter this by building a stronger domestic nuclear industry, your administration should improve the licensing and approval process of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and reform the country’s nuclear waste management policies. In addition to nuclear power, your administration should also make it easier to permit geothermal power plants, which today can play a much larger role in meeting the nation’s energy needs thanks to recent innovations using technology advanced by the oil and gas sector for shale development.

Even with progress on all these challenges, it is unrealistic to expect that the United States can produce all the clean energy products it needs domestically. It will take many years to diminish China’s lead in critical mineral supply, battery manufacturing, and solar manufacturing. The rate of growth needed in clean energy is too overwhelming, and China’s head start is too great to diversify supply chains away from it if the United States relies solely on domestic manufacturing or that of a few friendly countries. As a result, diminishing China’s dominant position requires that your administration expand economic cooperation and trade partnerships with a vast number of other nations. Contrary to today’s protectionist trends, the best antidote to concerns about China’s clean technology dominance is more trade, not less.

Your administration should also strengthen existing tools that increase the supply of clean energy products in emerging and developing economies in order to diversify supply chains and counter China’s influence in these markets. For example, the U.S. International Development Finance Corp. (DFC) can be a powerful tool to support U.S. investment overseas, such as in African or Latin American projects to mine, refine, and process critical minerals. As DFC comes up for reauthorization next year, you should work with Congress to provide DFC with more resources and also change the way federal budgeting rules account for equity investments; this would allow DFC to make far more equity investments even with its existing funding. Your administration can also use DFC to encourage private investment in energy projects in emerging and developing economies by reducing the risk investors face from fluctuations in local currency that can significantly limit their returns or discourage their investment from the start. The U.S. Export-Import Bank is another tool to support the export of U.S. clean tech by providing financing for U.S. goods and services competing with foreign firms abroad.

Despite this country’s deep divisions and polarization, leaders of both parties should agree that bolstering clean energy production in the United States and in a broad range of partner countries around the world is in America’s economic and security interests.

I wish you much success in this work, which will also be the country’s success.

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beenasarwar · 2 days ago

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America is turning away from Chinese solar panels. Could this benefit Southasia?

With the Trump administration’s imposition of a long-threatened 10% tariff on Chinese imports, could America’s bid for freedom from the Chinese solar market benefit India and Pakistan’s burgeoning solar industry? By Aidan Harper / Sapan News Over the past three years, the price of solar panels in the United States has fluctuated between an historic high and low due to a reliance on China. Now,…

#Bhadla Solar Park #china #india #pakistan #Sapan News Network #solar power #usa

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solarapp · 8 days ago

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Solar Panels vs. Conventional Energy: Which is Cheaper?

In today’s world, the rising demand for energy and the urgent need to address environmental concerns have pushed people to explore sustainable energy sources. Among these, solar energy stands out as a promising alternative to conventional energy sources. But when it comes to costs, many people in Pakistan ask, “Which is cheaper: solar panels or conventional energy?” In this article, we’ll dive deep into the cost comparison, focusing on factors like installation, maintenance, and long-term savings.

Understanding Solar Panels

Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity through photovoltaic cells. They are installed on rooftops, open fields, or other sunlit areas and can power homes, businesses, and even industries. The initial investment might seem high, but the benefits, especially in a sun-rich country like Pakistan, are significant. Over time, they prove to be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution.

What is Conventional Energy?

Conventional energy refers to electricity generated from fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas. This form of energy is widely used across Pakistan, powering homes, industries, and businesses. However, the rising costs of fossil fuels and the inefficiencies in the national grid system have made it less reliable and more expensive over time.

Solar Panel Cost in Pakistan

One of the key factors in the debate between solar panels and conventional energy is the cost. Solar panel installation has become more affordable over the years, and the solar panel cost in Pakistan varies depending on the type and size of the system you choose. On average, a residential solar setup can cost between PKR 300,000 to PKR 800,000. While this may seem like a significant upfront expense, government incentives, tax rebates, and financing options are available to reduce the burden.

Upfront Costs: Solar Panels vs. Conventional Energy

Solar Panels:

The initial cost includes purchasing the solar panels, inverters, batteries (if needed), and installation charges.

For a typical home, the upfront cost may range from PKR 300,000 to PKR 1,000,000 depending on the energy requirements.

Government subsidies and net metering options can further reduce these costs.

Conventional Energy:

Conventional energy has no upfront cost for infrastructure since homes are already connected to the grid.

However, initial connection charges and monthly bills add up over time, making it more expensive in the long run.

Operational Costs

Solar Panels:

Solar energy systems have minimal operational costs. Once installed, they harness sunlight for free.

Occasional cleaning and maintenance are required, but these costs are negligible compared to monthly electricity bills.

Conventional Energy:

Electricity bills are recurring and increase over time due to rising fuel prices and inflation.

Fuel-based power plants and grid maintenance costs are indirectly passed on to consumers.

Long-Term Savings

One of the biggest advantages of solar panels is the long-term savings they offer:

A solar energy system typically pays for itself within 5-7 years through reduced electricity bills.

With a lifespan of 20-25 years, the savings over time are substantial.

Additionally, with net metering in Pakistan, you can sell excess electricity back to the grid, further offsetting costs.

On the other hand, conventional energy only becomes more expensive over time. The dependency on fossil fuels makes the system vulnerable to price hikes, and consumers often bear the brunt of inefficiencies in the national grid.

Environmental Impact

While the cost comparison is critical, it’s also essential to consider the environmental implications:

Solar panels generate clean and renewable energy, reducing carbon emissions and pollution.

Conventional energy sources rely on fossil fuels, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and global warming.

Switching to solar energy not only saves money but also helps protect the environment for future generations.

Accessibility and Reliability

Solar Panels:

Solar energy systems are independent of the national grid, making them more reliable, especially in areas with frequent load-shedding.

In regions with abundant sunlight, such as Pakistan, solar panels perform efficiently year-round.

Conventional Energy:

The national grid in Pakistan faces challenges like frequent outages and voltage fluctuations, which can disrupt daily life and damage appliances.

Dependency on imported fuels makes conventional energy less reliable and more expensive.

Solar Panel Cost in Pakistan: A Game-Changer

With falling prices and increasing awareness, the solar panel cost in Pakistan is no longer a barrier for many households. Government initiatives like net metering and tax exemptions have made solar energy more accessible and affordable. Moreover, the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial investment, making it a wise choice for those looking to reduce their energy costs and carbon footprint.

Conclusion

When comparing solar panels and conventional energy in terms of cost, solar panels emerge as the clear winner for long-term savings and environmental sustainability. While the initial investment may be higher, the reduced operational costs, long lifespan, and potential for income through net metering make solar panels a smarter choice for households and businesses in Pakistan. With the availability of financing options and decreasing solar panel cost in Pakistan, now is the perfect time to make the switch to clean, reliable, and affordable solar energy.

#solar panel prices #solar panel cost

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abk91 · 18 days ago

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#solar energy #solar #solar panels #solar power #solarshowershop #technology #tech #techeducation

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hauntedexpertcrusade · 3 months ago

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The Future of Net Metering in Pakistan: A Path Toward Energy Independence

As Pakistan continues to face energy challenges, net metering has emerged as a powerful tool to empower consumers and promote renewable energy use. Net metering services in Pakistan allow consumers with solar energy systems to contribute excess electricity to the national grid and receive compensation. This article explores the future of net metering in Pakistan, how it works, its benefits, and the potential advancements that lie ahead.

1. What is Net Metering?

Net metering is a billing arrangement that credits solar energy system owners for the electricity they add to the grid. Homeowners with solar panels can generate their power, and when they produce more than they consume, the excess energy is sent back to the grid. The net meter tracks this exchange, offsetting electricity costs by allowing consumers to draw energy credits.

How Net Metering Works:

Energy Production: Solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity.

Grid Integration: Any unused power flows back into the national grid.

Billing: The net meter measures the difference between energy consumed and energy sent to the grid, creating a balance that can lower electricity bills.

2. Current State of Net Metering in Pakistan

In recent years, net metering services in Pakistan have gained traction due to increasing electricity prices and growing awareness of renewable energy benefits. The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has established regulations for net metering, encouraging homeowners and businesses to adopt solar power.

Key Statistics:

Growth: The number of registered net metering users in Pakistan has increased significantly in the last five years.

Government Policies: Supportive policies have been introduced to streamline the application process for obtaining net metering services.

3. Benefits of Net Metering for Pakistan

The future of net metering in Pakistan holds significant promise, especially when considering the benefits that come with widespread adoption:

Energy Independence:

Net metering empowers individuals and businesses to rely less on traditional power sources. By generating their electricity, consumers can achieve greater energy security.

Cost Savings:

Selling surplus energy back to the grid can substantially reduce monthly electricity bills. This is particularly appealing in Pakistan, where power tariffs have been rising.

Reduced Carbon Footprint:

Adopting net metering encourages the use of renewable energy sources like solar power, which helps reduce the country’s carbon emissions. This shift aligns with global sustainability goals and Pakistan’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gases.

4. Challenges Facing Net Metering in Pakistan

Despite its advantages, the future of net metering in Pakistan has challenges. Understanding these hurdles is essential to developing strategies for improvement.

Limited Awareness:

While net metering services in Pakistan are becoming more popular, many potential users still need to gain awareness about their work and the benefits they can provide.

Regulatory Hurdles:

Obtaining approval for net metering can be complex and time-consuming. Simplifying these procedures is crucial to encouraging more people to use net metering services.

Grid Infrastructure:

Pakistan's ageing grid infrastructure can limit the efficient integration of excess power generated through net metering. Upgrading the national grid to handle distributed energy sources will be essential for future growth.

5. The Future of Net Metering in Pakistan

The future of net metering in Pakistan is promising, provided that strategic initiatives are implemented. Here are some key aspects to consider for the growth and development of net metering services in the country:

Technological Advancements:

Innovations in solar technology, battery storage, and smart grid systems are likely to play a pivotal role in enhancing the efficiency of net metering. Improved technology can help manage energy flow more effectively and store excess power during non-peak sunlight hours.

Policy Enhancements:

The government could introduce further incentives, such as tax credits and rebates, to promote the installation of solar energy systems and net metering services. Simplifying the approval and certification process for net meters would make it easier for more consumers to participate.

Public-Private Partnerships:

Collaboration between the public and private sectors can drive net metering infrastructure and technology investment. Such partnerships can address current limitations in the power grid and ensure a smoother integration of renewable energy sources.

6. Steps to Foster Growth in Net Metering

To ensure that the future of net metering in Pakistan reaches its potential, several strategic steps can be taken:

Awareness Campaigns: Educate the public on net metering's workings and benefits through workshops, media outreach, and educational programs.

Regulatory Support: Streamlining policies to make it easier for consumers to register for net metering services.

Infrastructure Upgrades: Investing in grid modernisation to handle increased participation in net metering.

Conclusion

The future of net metering in Pakistan is bright, with the potential to revolutionise how the country approaches energy consumption and sustainability. While there are challenges to overcome, the benefits, including cost savings, energy independence, and environmental impact, make net metering an essential part of Pakistan’s energy landscape. By continuing to improve infrastructure, policies, and public awareness, net metering services in Pakistan can pave the way for a cleaner, more energy-efficient future.

#net metering #net meter #max power #lifestyle

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