How does renewable energy hurt the environment?

Answer 1

The negative impacts of renewable energy will depend on the type and application, and are addressed more thoroughly in the specific categories.

In general, wind and solar energy may require the increased use of peaker plants, which may consume more fossil fuels than the base load plants and load following plants they replace.

Hydroelectric power requires the use of impoundments, which may have negative effects on some species of fish (e.g. trout, salmon, and sturgeon) , as well as the general migration of fish up and down river. Fish ladders and partial impoundments are possible solutions.

Geothermal plants may cause accelerated geologic cooling, which may cause decreases in the outputs of natural geothermal springs, and may cause increases in earthquake magnitudes, although this is still primarily speculative.

Tidal energy requires the partial obstruction of bays and waterways.