Quote:
Originally Posted by jamesqf
GDP is really the wrong way of thinking about things. For an example, say you have a choice between two things that do the same job at the same price. Buy the one that uses half as much energy to do it, and you reduce the GDP because of the energy not being produced and sold, but you haven't reduced your quality of life at all.
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I get what you're saying, but if my utility rates double because we have to build 1000 new nuclear plants in the next 20 years, then my quality of life has been reduced. Not only will my utility bill be higher, but all goods will cost more due to the increased energy price.
Just look at California's crazy electricity rates. It costs more per mile to drive on electricity there than burning gasoline. A big reason for the high cost is the 33% renewable power mandate. Californians electric rates are twice as high, but only get 33% of their power from renewable sources. I hate to think what the rate will be in 2030 when they mandate 50% from renewable sources, excluding hydro.
In Oregon/Washington, electricity is 1/3 the cost per mile as gasoline.