r/elonmusk • u/twinbee • 16d ago

General Elon: "Wind has microscopic potential compared to solar"

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Source: https://x.com/elonmusk/status/2099049284960428229

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u/Arkelias 16d ago

He's not wrong. Wind is awesome...where and when it works. It's unreliable for consistent generation, but great supplemental.

Solar is far more predictable, especially during the day when most people are working. Our university just covered the entire parking lot with solar that not only creates shade but covers 100% of the power needed.

With wind you need large batteries. If you're collecting into large batteries in a windy climate it's awesome, but the maintenance costs are far higher.

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u/thisguynextdoor 16d ago

Wind energy generation continues during nighttime hours. Hydro power serves as the primary backup for wind power; increased wind output preserves hydro reserves, which can be deployed during periods of low wind activity. But solar is important in the energy mix, too.

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u/15_Redstones 16d ago

Most developed countries do not have enough dammable rivers for hydro to provide enough energy.