Study calls for renewable energy progress

SANTA MONICA, Calif., June 26 (UPI) -- U.S. analysts say they've found an urgent need for major progress in technology if even 25 percent renewable energy use is to be affordable.

The Rand Corp. study says dramatic renewable energy technology advances are needed if the United States desires to produce 25 percent of its electricity and motor vehicle fuel from renewable sources by 2025 without significantly increasing consumer costs.

The study found biomass resources and wind power have the greatest potential to contribute toward reaching that goal. Currently, renewable energy provides 9.5 percent of the total U.S. electricity supply, mostly hydroelectric power, and 1.6 percent of motor vehicle fuel.

"Expanding the use of renewable fuels will lower the long-term price of crude oil and reduce carbon dioxide emissions that are contributing to global warming," said lead author Michael Toman, director of the Rand Environment, Energy and Economic Development program. "However, to reap these benefits will require a major investment in improving and increasing the use of renewable energy technology."

More information is available at http://www.rand.org/news/press/2008/06/24/