The Myth of Wind Farm CO₂ Reduction: A Critical Analysis

This session will critically examine the widespread belief that offshore wind farms significantly reduce CO₂ emissions. After explaining some of the fundamental characteristics of electricity, we will discuss the counterintuitive reality that integrating wind energy into electricity grids may actually increase fossil fuel consumption and emissions due to the inefficiencies introduced because of the unpredictable intermittent power. Drawing on real-world studies from regions like Ireland, the Netherlands, and Colorado, the discussion highlights how the intermittent nature of wind power disrupts stable energy production. Additionally, we will analyze the environmental costs of constructing wind farms, including the carbon-intensive processes of manufacturing concrete, steel and fiberglass. By questioning the economic and environmental rationale behind large-scale wind farm projects, this seminar offers participants a deeper understanding of the complexities of renewable energy policy.

Miles Bidwell holds B.A., M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in Economics from Columbia University, where he specialized in applied microeconomic theory and econometrics. Until 2011, Dr. Bidwell was president of Bidwell Associates, Inc., which provided advice and expert testimony on matters pertaining to the electricity industry. Previously, he was a vice president of National Economic Research Associates, Inc. and chief of regulatory research for the New York State Public Service Commission. For the past thirty years, Dr. Bidwell has been conducting research and advising clients on issues related to the electricity industry. As an expert witness, he has appeared before federal and state courts and in hearings before numerous state regulatory commissions, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Federal Communications Commission and the House of Lords.