"Wind and Solar power is too intermittent/sporadic"
Neither wind nor solar power can supply 100% of our energy demand by themselves. Instead, they work in tandem to compensate for each other's weaknesses. While they are technically intermittent, wind and solar power's categorization as ''intermittent'' does not translate to an inability to provide a generous amount of energy. Solar and wind energy both depend on changes in climate and weather. However, these changes are predictable and can easily be accounted for when calculating how much energy can be provided and where it will be distributed.
The intermittency of solar and wind energy can be accounted for by placing solar panels and wind turbines in locations that will optimize their power output. Furthermore, as battery technology continues to improve, we have better and better ways of storing our energy for when the sun isn't shining or when the wind isn't blowing. In fact, there are battery packs available now for home and commercial use that solve solar intermittency. When the sun isn't shining, your home will switch to battery power. And when the sun is shining, the solar panels will power your home and charge the battery pack at the same time.
Despite people thinking that wind and solar is an impractical solution for our future, four states in Germany were already relying on wind power for up to 52% of their electric power needs by 2010, without facing any major crises. A recent study also showed that the grid in Europe will be able to handle up to 70% of electrical energy from wind despite its intermittency. Overall, the challenge of overcoming the intermittency of many renewable resources is far less than the challenges we are facing and will face if we do not make the switch.
Contributed by: Matthew Ye, Gabbie Knauer, Jillian Yagoda