S4E20: Following Portugal’s Lead on 100% Renewables

Earthlings 2.0 Podcast

Hello Earthlings! In this episode, we dive into an inspiring story of renewable energy success. Our guest is Julian Spector, a senior reporter at Canary Media, who was the first to report on Portugal’s remarkable achievement of powering its grid with 100% renewable energy for six consecutive days. We discuss how Portugal, despite not having easy access to geothermal or extensive hydro resources, managed to achieve this milestone and what lessons other countries can learn from their experience.

Lisa Ann and Julian discuss the significance of Portugal's achievement, the history of 100% renewable energy goals, and the future of renewable energy worldwide. We also delve into the practicalities of grid management, the role of energy storage, and how different regions can adapt similar strategies to their unique contexts.

Restoring Our Faith in Humanity this week is Connie Sanchez and the National Audubon Society’s Lights Out initiative, which aims to protect migratory birds from the hazards of city lights.

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Key Topics:

• Portugal's Achievement of Six Days of 100% Renewable Energy: Portugal powered its grid entirely with renewable energy for six consecutive days, showcasing a significant milestone in the global shift towards sustainable energy.
• Practical Strategies for Other Regions to Replicate Portugal's Success: Portugal's intentional and strategic planning, including the development of wind and solar power, serves as a model for other regions. Their approach demonstrates that even countries without extensive natural resources can achieve significant renewable energy milestones.
• The Importance of Energy Storage and Grid Management: Effective grid management and energy storage are crucial for maintaining a stable supply of renewable energy. Portugal's use of hydropower as a base load and their exploration of battery storage solutions highlight the importance of a diverse energy portfolio.

Voices on The Show:

• Julian Spector, Senior Reporter at Canary Media
• Linkedin: Julian Spector

• Lisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO of Technica Communications, and Founder of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability
• LinkedIn: Lisa Ann Pinkerton
• X - Lisa Ann Pinkerton
• Instagram - @LisiAnni
• Technica Communications
• Women in Cleantech and Sustainability

Web Resources:

• Article mentioned in the show: Portugal just ran on 100% renewables for six days in a row
• 11 countries leading the charge on renewable energy | Climate Council
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