Thursday, 24 June 2021

Climate Crisis in Microcosm?

Lake Oroville is California's second largest reservoir. It also has a hydroelectric plant, generating electricity for the state. Electricity is needed for many processes, including running air-conditioning to deal with summer temperatures. The water level in Lake Oroville is now so low, the hydroelectric plant cannot operate (https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/jun/24/california-drought-hydropower-fossil-fuels). This failure of hydropower means California will have to burn more fossil fuels (mainly gas) to maintain the electricity supply. This means increased 'greenhouse gas' emissions. These emissions might well result in increased air temperatures. This will enhance the requirement for air-conditioning. Which means more electricity will be required. It sounds awfully like a typical vicious cycle!
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