Key takeaways:

• The US Department of Energy claimed wind and solar are useless at night without wind.
• Critics pointed out batteries make renewable energy storage effective.
• California leaders and analysts highlighted battery success in real grids.
• Halting clean projects may raise bills, cost jobs, and risk blackouts.

Last week, the Department of Energy posted that wind and solar are “essentially worthless when it is dark outside, and the wind is not blowing.” Many experts saw this as a clear sign that the DOE misunderstands how renewable energy storage works. Critics quickly called out the false claim and raised alarms about stopping clean power projects.

Background of DOE’s post

Late Friday, the DOE used social media to argue that wind turbines and solar panels fail when the sun sets and the air is calm. They did not mention that batteries can store power for hours or even days. Since then, the post drew strong reactions from media, politicians, and energy analysts.

For example, a top editor said the statement made America’s leaders look “proudly, unashamedly, openly moronic and ignorant.” Others noted that no one would run a power grid without storage. In short, this claim surprised many who know how modern systems manage energy.

How renewable energy storage really works

Most renewable energy storage relies on batteries. Batteries charge when the sun shines or breezes blow. Later, they release that stored power when solar panels sleep and wind turbines rest. This way, homes and businesses stay lit around the clock.

In California, batteries already provide more than a quarter of peak electricity. Moreover, they help avoid blackouts by smoothing out sudden dips in power. Because batteries charge quickly, they can fill gaps when demand spikes. Therefore, experts argue that renewable energy storage is the backbone of a clean grid.

Why critics are outraged

Critics say the DOE statement fits a worrying trend. The current Energy Secretary once led a major oilfield services firm. Some watchdogs claim he pushes misinformation to protect fossil fuel profits. They argue that this rhetoric slows down renewable energy storage and hurts ordinary people.

A leading fossil fuel tracker went further, demanding the secretary’s firing. They warned that misleading claims drive up electricity prices. They also said stopping clean energy costs jobs and raises pollution. In their view, renewable energy storage offers the fastest path to more power capacity.

The impact of stopping renewable projects

Right now, the administration has ordered work to halt on key wind and solar sites. For instance, a major offshore wind farm off New England paused its progress. Analysts say this move will cost thousands of jobs and delay much-needed power.

Energy bills are already climbing due to higher demand on the grid. New AI data centers are one big reason. When renewables plus storage are ready as planned, they could ease stress on the network. Instead, delays keep prices high and leave some areas at risk during cold snaps or heat waves.

What comes next

Energy reports warn that the US cannot meet rising power needs without renewables and battery backup. For at least the next five years, experts see no viable short-term alternative. Thus, many urge the White House to lift stop-work orders and support clean energy storage.

In California, lawmakers sent a friendly note to the federal team. They described the state’s batteries as key to shifting toward green energy while keeping lights on. Similarly, meteorologists stressed that mixing wind, solar, and storage could meet majority needs if the plan moves forward.

Conclusion

The debate over that DOE post shows how crucial renewable energy storage has become. Without it, clean power cannot fill all our needs. With it, the US can cut pollution, lower bills, and keep the grid stable. Now, America’s energy policy faces a choice: embrace storage and renewables or risk higher costs and less reliable power.

Frequently asked questions

How do batteries store renewable energy?

Batteries capture extra electricity from solar panels and wind turbines. They save this power until you need it. Then they release energy to homes or businesses when generation dips.

Why did the DOE claim renewables are useless at night?

The DOE’s post oversimplified wind and solar. It ignored that batteries store power. Critics say the statement failed to recognize modern grid technology.

What happens if clean energy projects stop?

Stopping wind and solar work can delay new power capacity. This may raise electric bills, cost jobs, and increase the risk of blackouts during peak demand.

Can renewable energy storage meet most power needs?

Yes. Experts show that a system combining renewables with storage can supply the majority of electricity. This mix can keep grids stable even when the sun sets or winds calm.