Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member Latest Breaking News Editorials & Other Articles General Discussion The DU Lounge All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

Environment & Energy

applegrove

(131,894 posts) Tue Mar 17, 2026, 08:41 PM 18 hrs ago

Solar electrical output out west was in surplus this winter.

We have the solutions to reduce power plant pollution and keep the lights on, and we're pioneering it in California.

While the east coast faced a deadly winter storm, California had plentiful solar power. [1/2]
— Rep. Doris Matsui (@dorismatsui.bsky.social) 2026-03-17T22:46:01.013Z

3 replies

= new reply since forum marked as read

Highlight:

Solar electrical output out west was in surplus this winter. (Original Post) applegrove 18 hrs ago OP

This makes too much sense for some of our leadership to grasp. Deuxcents 18 hrs ago #1

In fact, California can't even use all the solar we generate.... CoopersDad 17 hrs ago #2

In the last ninety days only 30% of California's electricity has been solar. hunter 14 hrs ago #3

Deuxcents

(26,628 posts)

1. This makes too much sense for some of our leadership to grasp.

Reply to applegrove (Original post)

Tue Mar 17, 2026, 09:05 PM

18 hrs ago

CoopersDad

(3,311 posts)

2. In fact, California can't even use all the solar we generate....

Reply to applegrove (Original post)

Tue Mar 17, 2026, 09:40 PM

17 hrs ago

And this is why storage is so important.
Batteries, Pumped Hydropower, and other systems can store excess solar and wind energy that can't currently be used.

https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/images/2025.05.28/main.svg

?w=1170&ssl=1

Source: https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=65364

hunter

(40,642 posts)

3. In the last ninety days only 30% of California's electricity has been solar.

Reply to applegrove (Original post)

Wed Mar 18, 2026, 12:30 AM

14 hrs ago

Last edited Wed Mar 18, 2026, 08:49 AM - Edit history (1)

Adding additional storage will only make our electricity cost more.

We're already competing with Hawaii for the highest electric rates.

Sunlight may be free but incorporating solar power into a reliable electric grid is not.

Reply to this discussion