[The E]

Your solution is flawed in that it isn't a set of batteries. Or pumped-storage hydroelectricity. In other words, since wind power is only really efficient when using quite a few generators operating in concert, solutions that only work for single generators (like the flywheels you propose) are inefficient.

[FlamingCobra]

Your solution is flawed in that it isn't a set of batteries. Or pumped-storage hydroelectricity. In other words, since wind power is only really efficient when using quite a few generators operating in concert, solutions that only work for single generators (like the flywheels you propose) are inefficient.

My earth science textbook from last year mentioned pumping compressed air into underground shafts/caverns and letting it flow back out (through a turbine) when it is needed. would that be more or less efficient than pumped-storage hydroelectricity?

[Nuke]

better answer:

impale the snake!

I'm assuming my solution is flawed, then. Or is that just part of Nukism?

well i think you've dropped the iq of the thread (and others) by tens if not hundreds of points, and your not the only one, but you make a good target.

[FlamingCobra]

Anyway, my personal standpoint is that we should use natural gas as a stepping stone while we make the transition from primarily a coal-powered society to a nuclear-powered society supplemented by solar and wind power and possibly OTEC.

[The E]

Your solution is flawed in that it isn't a set of batteries. Or pumped-storage hydroelectricity. In other words, since wind power is only really efficient when using quite a few generators operating in concert, solutions that only work for single generators (like the flywheels you propose) are inefficient.

My earth science textbook from last year mentioned pumping compressed air into underground shafts/caverns and letting it flow back out (through a turbine) when it is needed. would that be more or less efficient than pumped-storage hydroelectricity?

It's an alternative in cases where you do not have the geographical features necessary for hydro.

[FlamingCobra]

Your solution is flawed in that it isn't a set of batteries. Or pumped-storage hydroelectricity. In other words, since wind power is only really efficient when using quite a few generators operating in concert, solutions that only work for single generators (like the flywheels you propose) are inefficient.

My earth science textbook from last year mentioned pumping compressed air into underground shafts/caverns and letting it flow back out (through a turbine) when it is needed. would that be more or less efficient than pumped-storage hydroelectricity?

It's an alternative in cases where you do not have the geographical features necessary for hydro.

Yeah, but my thing is, damming is already a controversial issue.

I just realized what an idiot I am.

[Nuke]

well the greenies cant really shut down hydro because that the main cash cow in power generation and its renewable, and we can solve the problems with wildlife with fish ramps and the like. dams arent as controversial as they once were. its free power for the taking but only where you have the geological features necessary to build one.