Editor,

Reading April 15’s “San Mateo is exploring ban on natural gas,” the alternative is to go electric. The problem I see is we are asked to use more electricity. Where is this increase to come from with utility companies trying to restrict home solar generation? I also have not heard of any new electric generating plants coming online. If there were more generators coming online does it get distributed over the old distribution network that should’ve been updated years ago? I sure would like to hear our leaders address this problem.

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(2) comments

Dirk van Ulden

Mr. Bogdanov - ultimately it will be PG&E's responsibility to upgrade the distribution system as a provision of its franchise agreement with each area government agency. I am sure PG&E, which has deservedly been beat up, is trying to keep things quiet but as a former employee, I can assure you that this discussion is being held. The problem will be that any upgrade will cost the ratepayers dearly and that is where cities that are adopting the no-natural gas position are failing to let you and me know that we are in for massive rate increases. Sufficient generation is another story and that is no longer the responsibility of PG&E but rests solely with green-inflicted personnel at the CPUC and the CEC. These leaders are appointed by the governor and you know where that flaky guy stands.

edkahl

The problem that green advocates refused to acknowledge that there there is no affordable storage for wind and solar energy. Batteries are far too expensive (a Tesla car battery cost $$35,000). For now we need natural gas power plants for when the wind and sun aren't working. We also need natural gas in our homes for when there is a black out. But help is on the way. Southern Californian Edison is building a demonstrate plant for using hydrogen produce by solar and wind that can be stored for later use. Hundreds of millions are being invested in Europe and Saudi Arabia on the same idea.

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