A proposed energy project in Europe would supply so much renewable energy to the continent that fossil fuels may no longer be necessary. Consisting mostly of wind farms and using high voltage direct-current lines as main arteries, this supergrid would be more efficient and less costly than any counterpart. It does this by dealing with the biggest hurdle in wind-driven energy: unreliability. All the wind turbines across Europe would be massed and contributed to a centralized grid, so no matter what - wind will be blowing somewhere.

The only step that separates this project from reality is the political will of the citizens of Europe to accept the $80bil price tag that comes with it. Given the enthusiasm shown for greener forms of production and the promise of a fossil-free existence, it sounds like all the European people need is assurance of success. The plan's creator, German Gregor Czisch says that Europe's grids are outdated and in bad need of replacement. He is confident such a plan could be implemented within 5 years.

Labels: Advanced Energy