Lessons from Japan – Power Plants of the Future

What the U.S. should take away from the devastation in Japan.rnJapan has long been a staunch user of nuclear power to keep its country energized and was relying on the controversial fuel for about 30% of its energy needs. However in the aftermath of the tsunami, and the ensuing radiation leak at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, there has been a stronger push for harnessing other sources of energy, one that we as Americans should hear loud and clear. Leading the initiative is a Japanese telecommunications company named Softbank and it’s President & CEO Masayoshi Son. Mr. Son announced his company would work with local officials to construct 10 large solar power plants and would also set up the ”Natural Energy Council” to promote natural energy power generation. Son believes combining solar, wind, and geothermal sources can generate a significant amount of electricity and each method can be tailored to a particular region. Son’s string of solar energy facilities would cost about $100 million and run along eastern Japan as part of a solar belt. The investment would also help revitalize tsunami-hit areas on the east coast and Softbank would fund 10 percent, with local governments contributing about $1.3 million each and the rest to be borrowed from additional banks. Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan also recently scrapped a nuclear-based energy policy and plans on implementing a “Sunrise Plan” to put solar panels on all suitable buildings by 2030. Solar panels produce energy anywhere the sun shines and recognizing this, Japan is making the necessary efforts to rebuild their country with these long term benefits in mind. We too need similar policies and leadership to advance our country’s energy goals while simultaneously curbing our reliance on costly fossil fuels. The first step in accomplishing this is by raising general awareness as to the purpose and use of renewable energy. Renewable energy comes from energy resources that are continuously replenished through the cycles of nature and will never become exhausted. Unlike finite fossil fuels, renewable resources are continuously replenished and will not run out. Renewable energy resources are clean sources of energy and can be harnessed without damaging the environment, unlike using fossil fuels that release carbon dioxide (a greenhouse gas) and other harmful pollutants into the atmosphere. There are a number of options available to homeowners and businesses wishing to go the renewable route and currently there are grants available for domestic users who wish to install solar panels and technology, wind turbines, and other energy efficient products. One Stop Green is looking towards a ‘greener’ future, sharing the latest and greatest ideas in green living and green technology with you through our staff written blogs. Going ‘green’ is no longer a choice, it’s our responsibility, that’s why it’s so important to try and do the small things that can help change the outlook of the planet – and this is essentially the purpose of One Stop Green. We believe even the little things like recycling or using less water helps the environment out in a big way, and that’s why our various solutions seek to nurture and edify your home or business in an eco-friendly manner. Learn more about One Stop Green at http://www.onestopgreen.com/.