A United Energy Strategy for a Sustainable Alberta: Harnessing All Our Resources

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In the complex tapestry of our global energy needs, the threads of affordability and reliability are paramount. Yet, as we stare down the challenges of the 21st century, so is the need for sustainability and a forward-thinking approach to energy. Alberta finds itself at the crossroads of this crucial discussion. As we look at the broader picture, a clear message emerges: the energy future of Alberta – and indeed the world – isn’t about choosing between Oil & Gas or Renewables. It's about leveraging both. From a macro perspective, society is clearly echoing the benefits of green energy. The sun and wind, as inexhaustible power sources, beckon us with promises of cleaner, more sustainable energy. When we talk about combating climate change or reducing our carbon footprint, the imagery of spinning wind turbines and gleaming solar panels often occupies our collective imagination. And rightly so. If we can harness the power of these natural forces effectively, why shouldn't we? However, for regions like Alberta, where baseload power from hydroelectric or nuclear sources isn't available, the energy narrative requires a bit more nuance. The truth is, while renewables hold immense potential, they are not without their limitations. Solar and wind power are intermittent. The sun doesn't always shine, and the wind doesn't always blow. This intermittency demands a reliable backup – a stabilizing force that ensures the lights stay on even when nature is uncooperative. Enter Oil & Gas.

The Oil & Gas industry has been Alberta's backbone for decades. It has driven our economy, offered employment, and contributed significantly to our society. As we pivot towards a more sustainable future, it would be not just imprudent but also counterproductive to sideline this industry. Instead, a holistic strategy that acknowledges the strengths and limitations of both renewables and fossil fuels is needed. Imagine a future where Alberta leads not just in Oil & Gas, but also in clean energy technology. A place where Oil & Gas doesn't just mean extraction but also innovation – in carbon capture, cleaner burning technologies, and energy efficiency. And where renewables are not just an alternative, but an integrated part of our energy landscape. The future is not about "either-or". It’s about “and”. It's about bringing together industries, stakeholders, and communities in crafting a united vision for Alberta's energy future. It's about recognizing that to truly have a solution-based outcome, we need all hands on deck. Affordability, reliability, and sustainability can coexist, but it requires collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to looking beyond divisive narratives.

How can affordability, reliability and sustainability co exist? By harnessing data-informed strategies, such as the application of digital twins, Duke Energy is poised to allocate energy resources with unparalleled efficiency. As a leading utility, at the forefront of executing its clean energy transition, championing a smarter energy future for both its customers and communities. This not only aligns with demand projections and ensures utmost reliability. It will leverage the cloud to run hundreds of millions of simulations of the entire grid on a regular basis to know how and where to spend. links:

https://aws.amazon.com/blogs/industries/duke-energy-and-aws-are-innovating-for-a-smarter-cleaner-energy-future/

#AlbertaEnergyUnite#GreenAndGas #SustainableAlberta #ReliabilityMeetsRenewables #UnifiedEnergyApproach #HarnessEveryResource #AlbertaLeads #CleanerTomorrow #EnergyCollaboration

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However, for regions like Alberta, where baseload power from hydroelectric or nuclear sources isn't available, the energy narrative requires a bit more nuance.

This is such a key argument that is often missed. When we look at countries or regions with a majority renewable energy, the reality is that it's coming from geographical assets that aren't everywhere. It's terrific that they tap into that, but each diverse geography is its own puzzle to solve to get to higher clean energy penetration

This article is well written with important energy messages.

First, a diverse and well managed energy portfolio is advocated. Mostly pointing to a Duke Energy / Amazon Web Service (AWS) electric grid "cloud" system. This will lead to the second important energy message.

Increasing participation and development opportunities for innovative energy systems reminds me of the development of the now vast Linux computer operating system. Climate activists underestimate the intelligence of people being told to get in an energy lifeboat that is already known to sink.

Thanks for posting.

You rightly pointed out the potential of the Duke Energy / AWS partnership. The cloud-based approach to managing the electric grid is just one of many innovations that can guide us towards a sustainable future. Embracing technology and data can help us make more informed decisions in the energy sector. A digital twin that is available to stakeholders could empower the following prior to deployment. Real-time Data Analysis Predictive Maintenance / Life Cycle Analysis Scenario Testing Optimization of Resources Integration with Renewables Carbon Footprint Analysis Cost-Efficiency If were talking about a 200 billion dollar capex spend it would be prudent to make data driven informed decisions to ensure cost, sustainability and reliability can co-exisit.

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