Transporting Green Energy May Threaten Natural Resources

"Wind, solar, and geothermal electric power produced in the rural reaches of the state must be somehow be transported to faraway cities – meaning some transmission lines must cut through national forests, wildlife refuges, and other treasured land areas."

"Solar panels require the expanse and cloudless climes of desert areas, wind requires the funneling effect of mountain passes, and geothermal power is derived from hot or steamed water underground."

"But how does the city get the energy to where it's needed without spoiling the pristine environments that it's trying to preserve?"

"'The fact of the matter is that renewable resources are from remote areas … and that is the challenge now facing California,' says Stephanie McCorkle, spokeswoman for the California Independent Systems Operator. 'We are trying to green the grid, and there are deadlines looming,' she adds. 'Transmission lines are the missing link. Where do we put them? That is what we have to decide.'"