How to Scale Back Renewable Energy Production Without Hampering Sustainability Efforts

Assess the Current Energy Mix and Set Realistic Goals

The first step is to take stock of the current energy mix and establish realistic renewable energy goals that balance sustainability aims with grid reliability and affordability. An energy audit can identify areas where renewable generation is high and assess if scaling back in certain areas will significantly impact sustainability targets. Setting renewable portfolio standards that are achievable rather than aspirational may mean slower progress but builds confidence in the energy transition.

Prioritize the Most Productive Renewable Sources

When determining where to scale back renewable generation, prioritize the most productive, efficient sources. For example, scaling back distributed solar may have less impact than curtailing utility-scale wind or solar plants. Geothermal, hydroelectric, and offshore wind tend to have high capacity factors, so should be preserved when possible. Cutting renewable resources with the lowest yields first allows sustainability goals to remain largely on track.

Shift from Variable to Baseload Renewables

Scaling back variable renewables like wind and solar in favor of more baseload sources like geothermal, hydroelectric, biomass, and nuclear preserves reliability. While variable sources are important, relying too heavily on them can strain the grid. Baseload renewable technologies generate power more consistently, acting as a firm backbone when cutting variable resources.

Strengthen Grid Flexibility and Transmission

Curtailing renewable generation may be less necessary with a more flexible grid and robust transmission connections. Upgrading to Smart Grid technologies, like advanced meters, storage, and responsive load management
allows higher penetration of renewables. Similarly, expanding and modernizing transmission lines prevents bottlenecks that often require curtailing variable generation.

Reduce Renewable Curtailment Through Energy Storage

Energy storage systems, like batteries and pumped hydro, allow renewable power to be shifted to match demand. This decreases curtailment and makes renewables more grid-friendly. Deploying storage provides flexibility to cut renewable production while storing excess generation for dispatch when needed.

Adjust Renewable Incentives and Power Pricing

Phasing out renewable energy incentives and adopting time-of-use power pricing can shift renewable generation patterns. Reducing incentives may discourage over-building variable sources most likely to be curtailed. Setting higher prices when demand is low incentivizes renewable generators to align output with grid needs.

Expand Demand Response and Energy Efficiency

Demand response programs that trigger load reduction during peak renewable output times allow curtailment to be avoided. Similarly, energy efficiency measures like smart thermostats reduce overall electricity demand, matching better with available renewable supply. This allows renewable buildout to be scaled back.

Implement Regional Coordination and Planning

Coordinating renewable energy planning and operations across regions and states provides more flexibility to scale back generation. For example, building transmission to swap excess renewable power between states prevents localized over-generation and curtailment. Regional coordination also allows prioritizing the most economic high-quality renewable resources.