Introduction

First of all and in a bold proclamation Musk declared energy independence. This vision echoes the ambition of America’s industrial revolution. For Elon Musk is a visionary entrepreneur. He is behind PayPal, Tesla, Boring Company and SpaceX.

However, he has now laid out a sweeping vision. It’s most certainly for the future of energy in the United States. For he was speaking to an audience of governors at the National Governors Association summer meeting. At the meeting, Musk painted a picture of a nation powered by the sun. In addition, that the energy harvested would be from a vast network of solar panels.  Moreover, the excess energy would be stored in colossal batteries. Those batteries would turn on later when the sun set. So they would be used at a later time. Essentially during peak periods of electrical demand and at night. For combined, they are the future of Microgrid technology.

Miles of Solar says Musk to Governor’s 

So with his characteristic ways, Musk also recently proposed to use just 100 square miles. Yes, for Musk knows that just 100 square miles of solar panels could generate enough electricity for powering the entire United States. This grand vision, he argues, most definitely is not just a pipe dream. However, it’s an achievable goal. More importantly, it’s a goal that will also revolutionize the country’s energy landscape.

Furthermore, it will also cement America’s position. Essentially as a leader in renewable technology.

Musk to Governors: Gigafactories

Therefore, the governors from across the political spectrum leaned in to hear more. Then Musk unveiled plans for a series of “Gigafactories”. These are the massive production facilities designed to churn out solar panels and batteries at an unprecedented scale.

In addition, these factories, he contends, would accelerate the transition to sustainable energy. As well, it will also create thousands of jobs. Therefore, we are clearly injecting new life into American manufacturing.

This certainly comes at a time of political division and environmental uncertainty. However, Musk’s proposal offers a tantalizing glimpse of a future. Essentially where clean energy and economic growth go hand in hand. Yet, as with all grand visions, the devil lies in the details. However, with the political and financial will to make it happen.

Musk to National Governor’s Association

He told them that it would be possible to supply every electron needed to keep America humming. That’s by covering just 100 square miles with solar panels.

Small Amount of Solar A lot of Energy for Governor’s 

Musk added that if you wanted to power the entire U.S. with solar panels, it would take a fairly small corner of Nevada or Texas or Utah. You also only need about 100 miles by 100 miles of solar panels. All to power the entire United States.

Of course, some grid storage capability would need to be included. Musk has an answer for that, too. As stated earlier, batteries are needed to store the excess energy. All to make sure you have 24/7 power, is 1 mile by 1 mile. One square mile. That’s it.

Now Seth says:

I learned this when I worked for NYSERDA. One of the things that made me work harder. 1% of  sub Saharan Africa can power the world. 9% of the Mohave desert can power the USA. You also need to use that energy storage. For combining the two is our one two combo. Add wind and tidal. It’s really over.

Conclusoon

Conclusion: A Brighter Future Powered by Solar

The remarkable 30% growth of the U.S. solar industry in 2015 was a pivotal moment, driven largely by the surge in residential solar installations. This milestone not only signifies the increasing affordability and accessibility of clean energy solutions, but also highlights the public’s growing appetite for sustainable living.

As Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, noted in his address to U.S. governors, “Solar power is the future, and the U.S. is well-positioned to lead the charge. [1] Musk’s vision for a renewable energy-powered future aligns with the industry’s trajectory, as the country continues to invest in large-scale solar projects and manufacturing capabilities.

According to The Guardian, the U.S. has the potential to generate all of its electricity from solar power, given the abundance of land and sunlight. [2] This ambitious goal is further bolstered by the rapid expansion of solar manufacturing, as exemplified by Tesla’s Gigafactory investments. [3]

Finally, the future of solar in the United States is undoubtedly bright. As the industry continues to innovate, drive down costs, and also engage with the public, the country is poised to cement its position. Essentially as a global leader in renewable energy. For clearly, the residential solar revolution is just the beginning. Especially as the nation embraces a sustainable, clean energy-powered future.

Sources

1. CNBC. (2017, July 17). Elon Musk tells governors about solar power, plus US Gigafactories.
2. The Guardian. (2017, July 17). Elon Musk: US has potential to generate all its electricity from solar.
3. Electrek. (2017, July 17). Elon Musk says US can be powered by 100% solar, talks about Tesla’s Gigafactory plans. For the entire story from CleanTechnica on July 19th, 2017 by Steve Hanley